Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) during a visit to the country on Wednesday.
“We went through dark times in these months of anguish, of war. During that time, I can say that Israel has had no better friend than Senator John Fetterman,” Netanyahu he said during a meeting with the senator.
Fetterman has been one of the most vocal supporters of Israel among Democrats, a political stance that has separated him from many of his progressive supporters.
“Thank you for your courageous statements that show moral clarity and moral courage,” Netanyahu added. “Just say it like it is, and we appreciate this friendship at all times, but especially in these times.”
Fetterman, wearing a trademark hooded sweatshirt, reaffirmed his support for the country.
“We are with Israel right now. I am very sorry for what has been done to this nation,” he told the prime minister. “It’s an honor to be here today.”
The senator also wore a special bracelet during his state visit, which was given to him by the families of the victims killed during the October 7 Hamas attack on the Nova music festival, at the start of the Israel-Hamas war.
He told Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Tuesday that he would not take off the bracelet until all hostages held by Hamas were returned.
Netanyahu is under increasing pressure to reach a ceasefire agreement with Hamas to secure the release of the hostages. His critics say he is intentionally prolonging the war to protect their own political interests.
This story originally appeared on thehill.com read the full story
