Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call With French Minister of the Armed Force Sébastien LecornuContracts for Oct. 1, 2024DOD Awards $43 Million to U.S.[...]

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with France's Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu earlier today to discuss the evolving situation in the Middle East. Secretary Austin underscored U.S. concerns about escalation in the conflict and commitment to pushing for a diplomatic solution. The Secretary affirmed the United States' determination to defend Israel from Iranian aggression. The two leaders shared the need for continuing coordination between the United States and France to protect both U.S. and French personnel in the region and they committed to continued close communication as the situation unfolds.