'I have no regrets': Fetterman breaks with Democrats again during Netanyahu meeting

WASHINGTON, DC: Sen John Fetterman declared, "I have no regrets," after using a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to once again distance himself from fellow Democrats over their stance on Israel.

His remarks underscored his widening split with members of his own party. Fetterman made clear he intends to keep embracing that role despite growing criticism of Netanyahu within Democratic circles.

John Fetterman embraces pro-Israel identity

The Pennsylvania Democrat met one-on-one with Netanyahu on Wednesday, July 29, where the Israeli leader praised him for standing apart from much of his party on Israel, Fox News reported Thursday, July 30.

According to a transcript released by Netanyahu's office, the prime minister told Fetterman, "You've been a stellar patriot, talking about what is good for America, what is good for our alliance, of which you've been a champion."

Netanyahu continued by praising the senator's willingness to defy political pressure.

"You've been telling it like it is, with no fear, and just an indefatigable and courageous commitment to the truth," he said.

Fetterman responded by calling the meeting one of the highlights of his Senate career.

"Mr Prime Minister, it was a supreme honor of my time here in the Senate," he said. "I'm proud to stand with and for the vision and what Israel is, the miracle that Israel is." 

Pennsylvania Democrat criticizes Zohran Mamdani

Fetterman also used the meeting to criticize Democrats over what he described as the party's increasingly hostile posture toward Israel.

"It's been disappointing, as a Democratic politician, how our party continues to behave," he said.

The senator specifically took aim at New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani after the mayor recently referred to Netanyahu as a "war criminal" and called for his arrest.

"Now I think, as far as I know, I was the only Democrat that was proud to push that trash back," Fetterman said. "I'm proud to stand with Israel through everything."

The exchange highlighted how Fetterman has continued to separate himself from many Democratic colleagues as criticism of Netanyahu's government has become more common.

John Fetterman says he is Democratic Party's conscience

Netanyahu closed the meeting by praising Fetterman's willingness to maintain his position despite political pressure.

"History will record your contribution to truth and justice," the Israeli leader told him.

Fetterman responded by embracing the role he believes he now occupies inside his party.

"I'm proud to remain the conscience of the Democratic Party in Congress," he said.

The senator also rejected any suggestion that he would soften his views on Israel, adding, "It's always been a just war for me. I don't understand how we've arrived with where we are politically, at least in my party, but I have no regrets."