HEGSETH MEETS NETANYAHU IN UNANNOUNCED ISRAEL VISIT FOR IRAN TALKS

What happened: Secretary of War Pete Hegseth made an unannounced visit to Israel on Monday and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss tensions with Iran and possible future developments. The Pentagon and Netanyahu's office declined to comment. Key numbers: U.S. midterm elections on Nov. Why it matters: Israeli security officials said the U.S. position is to avoid escalation with Iran until after the midterms, amid concerns renewed fighting could harm the Republican Party's interests. Netanyahu said the two countries have unfinished work in Iran. Coverage: 3 outlets in 24h

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth made an unannounced visit to Israel on Monday and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss tensions with Iran and possible future developments. The Pentagon and Netanyahu's office declined to comment.

Israeli security officials said the U.S. position is to avoid escalation with Iran until after the midterms, amid concerns renewed fighting could harm the Republican Party's interests. Netanyahu said the two countries have unfinished work in Iran.