Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III delivered a strong message of support and solidarity with Israel in the wake of recent violence and attacks by Hamas

According to a press statement issued by the Department of Defense, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III gave an impassioned speech of support and togetherness with Israel on October 13, 2023, during a joint press conference held in Israel.

The United States Department of Defense issued a statement in which it emphasized Secretary Austin's stance against terrorism and his unwavering dedication to securing Israel's protection. An abridged version of Secretary Austin's statement that began, "There is never any justification for terrorism," was included in the announcement. "And that's especially true after this rampage by Hamas. And anyone who wants lasting peace and security for this region must condemn and isolate Hamas."

The comparison that Secretary Austin made between Hamas and other terrorist organizations was also addressed in the press release. He was quoted as saying, "as a former commander of Central Command, the deliberate cruelty of Hamas vividly reminds me of ISIS. Bloodthirsty. Fanatical. And hateful. And like ISIS, Hamas has nothing to offer but zealotry, bigotry, and death."

The press statement issued by the Department of Defense provided additional information that outlined Austin's admiration for the prompt reaction that the United States had given to the crisis. This included the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group as well as the reinforcement of fighter aircraft units in the region.

In the news announcement that was released by the Department of Defense to distribute Secretary Austin's words, Austin is cited as saying, "The United States has Israel's back. That is not negotiable. And it never will be."