US Ambassador to Israel Mike Hammer: America Has Never Defended Israel
U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Hammer stated in a wide-ranging interview that America has never defended Israel, asserting that since 1948, "we haven't put boots on the ground for Israel." He explained that even when the U.S. acts against Iran, it's due to threats to American interests, not solely to protect Israel. Hammer emphasized that the U.S. is a "partner" to Israel, and this partnership serves American interests as well. He cited President Trump's decisions to deploy forces against Iran as examples of actions taken because Trump viewed Iran as a threat to America, not due to Israeli pleas, which he stated never occurred.
Hammer also addressed the relationship between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu, describing it as "still very strong and solid" with regular communication. He dismissed the notion that Trump was misled regarding Iran policy, stating he was present during key decision-making processes and that Trump acted on his own initiative. Regarding potential future military action against Iran, Hammer deferred to Washington's decision but noted Iran's current military and economic weakness.
The ambassador outlined U.S. objectives concerning Iran, including preventing it from acquiring nuclear weapons, stopping uranium enrichment, opening the Strait of Hormuz, and limiting its missile capabilities, highlighting the extended range of Iranian missiles capable of reaching major European cities. He also commented on the incident where he witnessed individuals he termed "unsettlers" entering a Palestinian home in Turmus Ayya, expressing surprise at their "brazenness" while distinguishing them from the vast majority of responsible settlers.
Concerning Gaza, Hammer opposed forced displacement but also the idea of preventing those who wish to leave from doing so, stating that neither Trump nor Netanyahu supported forcing anyone to leave or stay. He unequivocally stated that Hamas has not surrendered any weapons since the October 2025 ceasefire, questioning the genocide accusations against Israel given the daily humanitarian aid entering Gaza. Finally, Hammer refuted claims of an apartheid regime in Israel, pointing to the significant Arab representation in Israeli society, government, and judiciary.
