Senator John Fetterman received a silver-plated beeper from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after praising Israel’s operations against Hezbollah. Fetterman, a consistent supporter of Israel, visited during a tumultuous time following Hamas’s attack. The beeper commemorates significant military actions that altered the conflict and represents the ongoing diplomatic relationship between the U.S. and Israel.
During a visit to Israel, Senator John Fetterman, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, received a silver-plated beeper from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This gesture followed Fetterman’s commendation of Israel’s covert operation, which involved detonating pagers worn by Hezbollah terrorists last year. Fetterman has consistently expressed support for Israel despite dissent within the Democratic Party regarding Israel’s military actions in Gaza, urging for the return of hostages taken by Hamas on October 7, 2023.
The meeting in Jerusalem emphasized Fetterman’s steadfast support for Israel. In his remarks on social media, he declared, “Hamas does not want peace. I unapologetically, 100% stand with Israel, and demand the release of all remaining hostages.” His visit aimed to show solidarity with the nation, especially after the terrorist group’s attack that resulted in over 1,200 fatalities and numerous hostages.
In a gesture of goodwill, during the exchange of gifts, Fetterman presented Netanyahu with a framed article advocating for a memorial in Philadelphia dedicated to Yoni Netanyahu, Benjamin’s brother, who is revered as a hero in Israel. Yoni Netanyahu was killed during a 1976 rescue mission in Entebbe, Uganda, amidst a hijacking incident.
Responding to Fetterman’s thoughtful gift, Netanyahu presented the senator with the humorous line, “What can I give a man who has everything? How about giving him a beeper?” He explained that the silver-plated beeper, while substantially heavier than the regular version, symbolizes a significant operation that altered the course of events.
The operation involving pagers, conducted in September 2024, resulted in numerous casualties among Hezbollah members and preceded further military actions against the group. Fetterman reflected on this by stating, “When that story broke, I was like, ‘Oh, I love it, I love it.’ And now, it’s like, thank you for this.” This tactical episode set the stage for Israel’s later actions, including a ground invasion of Lebanon, culminating in a ceasefire by late November.
In an earlier instance of similar diplomatic gifting, Netanyahu had also awarded a gold-plated pager to former President Donald Trump in February.
Senator John Fetterman’s visit to Israel underscores his unwavering support for the country amidst internal party disagreements. The exchange of gifts with Prime Minister Netanyahu highlights the enduring diplomatic ties and symbolic gestures of solidarity. The silver-plated beeper commemorates a pivotal military operation against Hezbollah, signifying a broader narrative of support for Israel’s actions in the region. Fetterman’s advocacy for the release of hostages and his opposition to Hamas further delineate his position in the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
