Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu departed for Washington on Monday afternoon ahead of a White House meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, his office said.
The prime minister was initially expected to fly out around 11 a.m. Israel time, but his departure was delayed. Wing of Zion, Israel’s official state aircraft, took off around 1 p.m. from the Nevatim Air Force Base near Beersheva, the Kan News public broadcaster reported.
The prime minister did not deliver remarks to the press before boarding his flight.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before departing on a visit to Washington:
“I am on my way to Washington for a meeting with our friend, President Donald Trump. This is my eighth meeting with him since he was elected president for his second term, more than any other… pic.twitter.com/R5Cf7lJ4od— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) July 27, 2026
“I am on my way to Washington for a meeting with our friend, President Donald Trump,” Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office. “This is my eighth meeting with him since he was elected president for his second term—more than any other world leader.
“This is a great privilege, but it is also a great responsibility. From my experience as prime minister, during these complex times we must act with both great determination and great wisdom,” Netanyahu continued. “We will discuss all the issues on the agenda, first and foremost Iran. Of course, our goal is to safeguard our security while also expanding the circle of peace around us.
“I am embarking on this mission with one clear goal—to ensure the security, strength and future of our dear State of Israel,” declared the premier.
Netanyahu said he was also travelling “to pay final respects to our friend—a true friend of mine and of the State of Israel—Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest friends the State of Israel has ever known.
“I am certain that in this matter, I also represent you, the citizens of Israel,” he said.
Netanyahu’s visit to Washington comes amid continued strategic coordination with the Trump administration following recent tensions with Iran and as the two allies discuss broader regional issues.