Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call With Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav GallantRemarks by Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen H. Hicks At the Naming[...]

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

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today and reiterated his concern over the current escalation of exchanges between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah. The Secretary strongly reemphasized the importance of reaching a diplomatic resolution that enables residents to return safely to their homes on both sides of the border. The Secretary also urged continued efforts to reach a ceasefire deal in Gaza that would bring home all hostages held by Hamas. Secretary Austin reaffirmed the United States' unwavering, enduring, and ironclad commitment to Israel's security.