US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed the situation in the Middle East with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Galant, and the parties reaffirmed their commitment to containing Iran, the Pentagon said. According to the statement, Austin reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel's right to self-defense and noted that Washington "retains significant capabilities in the region" to protect U.S. personnel and facilities and to further support Israel's self-defense and deter further escalation.
“The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deterring Iran, Iran-backed partners and proxies from taking advantage of the situation or expanding the conflict,” the Pentagon said in a statement.
