Israel pleased with Obama's choice to succeed Hagel as Pentagon chief

The president said Carter "brings a unique blend of strategic perspective and technical know-how" to the job.

Israeli officials in Jerusalem on Saturday praised US President Barack Obama’s nominee to succeed outgoing Pentagon chief Chuck Hagel.

Obama on Friday named Ashton Carter, a longtime Pentagon aide, to the top post just days after Hagel announced he would be stepping down.

The president said Carter "brings a unique blend of strategic perspective and technical know-how" to the job.

At a small ceremony, Carter told Obama that if he is confirmed by the US Senate, "I pledge to you my most candid strategic advice."

Carter is considered to be an ardent supporter of Israel who has also enjoyed a close relationship with Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon. The two men met this past July in the Tel Aviv headquarters of the Defense Ministry during Carter’s visit to Israel.