Lloyd J. Austin III Secretary of Defence | Official website
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided an account of a recent conversation between Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant. The two officials discussed the pressing need to augment humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians in Gaza, specifically through the Kerem Shalom and Rafah crossings.
Secretary Austin updated Minister Gallant on the progress made by the U.S. in opening a maritime corridor to boost humanitarian aid to Gaza. The two defense leaders also reviewed ongoing efforts aimed at securing the release of hostages held captive by Hamas.
In addition, Secretary Austin emphasized the imperative need to ensure civilian protection and maintain an uninterrupted flow of aid prior to any potential Israeli military operation in Rafah.
Lastly, Secretary Austin reaffirmed the United States' unwavering commitment to Israel's security and the defeat of Hamas.
