US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had a phone conversation with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, during which he emphasized the need to ensure the safety of UNIFIL forces in southern Lebanon, as well as a swift return to a diplomatic solution.
“I called Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant last night to discuss Israel’s operations in Lebanon,” Lloyd Austin wrote on the social media platform X on Friday. “I reaffirmed my unwavering support for Israel’s right to defend itself,” he added.
The US official notably “emphasized the need to ensure the safety of UNIFIL forces and to coordinate efforts to move from military operations to a diplomatic path as soon as possible.”
Austin also reiterated “the United States’ commitment to a diplomatic agreement that would allow Lebanese and Israeli civilians to return home safely on both sides of the border.”
“I made it clear that the United States is well-prepared to defend its personnel, partners, and allies against attacks by Iran and Iran-supported partners and proxies,” he stated, adding that he also discussed with his Israeli counterpart “urgent steps to address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.”
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