Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s Calls With Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke twice with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant yesterday about events in Lebanon. The Secretary expressed full support for Israel’s right to defend itself and its people against Iranian backed terrorist groups. Secretary Austin stressed that the United States is determined to prevent Iran and Iranian-backed partners and proxies from exploiting the situation or expanding the conflict. The Secretary made it clear that the United States remains postured to protect U.S. forces and facilities in the region and committed to the defense of Israel.

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