US Secretary of Defense Receives Briefing on Israeli Strikes in Iran

WASHINGTON: US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin engaged in discussions with Israeli Defense Chief Yoav Gallant to receive updates on recent Israeli military actions targeting sites in Iran, the Pentagon announced on Friday.

According to Anadolu Agency, Austin reiterated the “ironclad commitment” of the United States to Israel’s security and its right to self-defense during a phone call. Pentagon spokesman Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder issued a statement detailing the conversation, emphasizing the robust US support for Israel amidst escalating regional tensions.

The dialogue between Austin and Gallant followed Israel’s declaration of carrying out “precise strikes” against military targets in Iran, which resulted in explosions heard in Tehran. The Israeli military characterized these actions as necessary responses to Iran’s previous ballistic missile attack on Israel on October 1st.

Austin highlighted the US’s enhanced defensive posture in the region, aimed at safeguarding American personnel, Israel, and allied natio
ns from threats posed by Iran and its associated organizations. Ryder conveyed Austin’s message on the US’s firm resolve to prevent any escalation or exploitation of the current tensions by any party in the region.

White House officials confirmed that President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris had been briefed on the situation. An American defense official clarified that while the US was informed of the strikes in advance, there was no direct US involvement in the operations.