Netanyahu seeks approval for U.S. bombers and bunker busters amid Israel-Iran conflict

In early July 2025, during a visit to Washington, D.C., Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu engaged with U.S. lawmakers amid an ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Iran. This trip marked Netanyahu's first journey to the nation since a 12-day conflict erupted between the two countries. While discussing military cooperation, Netanyahu indicated his interest in gaining access to advanced military capabilities, specifically B-2 stealth bombers and bunker-buster bombs, which the U.S. has used in past operations against Iranian nuclear sites.  During discussions with House Speaker Mike Johnson, Netanyahu expressed admiration for the strong coordination between Israel and the U.S., particularly under the leadership of President Donald Trump. He highlighted the importance of military assistance in enhancing the security of both nations and the broader free world. Netanyahu's remarks came in the context of bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress, where some members are advocating for laws that might enable the transfer of advanced military equipment to Israel. Netanyahu's comments reflect a growing urgency surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions and the potential military strategies the U.S. and allied nations may pursue if Iran continues its nuclear development. Specifically, he responded positively when asked whether Israel would like access to the B-2 stealth bombers and the formidable bunker-busting bombs capable of reaching deep underground facilities, such as Iran's Fordow site, which had been targeted in previous U.S. military operations.  The discourse underlines a complex geopolitical landscape in which military assistance is not solely viewed as a bilateral concern but also as a critical strategic component to ensuring regional stability. The international community has seen rising tensions in the Middle East, pushing nations like Israel to seek more powerful defense resources. Thus, these conversations signal deeper implications for U.S.-Israel relations, marking a significant discussion point in the ongoing dialogue about military preparedness and deterrence in a region fraught with conflict.