Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided a readout of a meeting held on June 25, 2024, between Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant at the Pentagon.
The discussion focused on efforts to de-escalate tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, increase humanitarian aid to Gaza, and address Iranian and Iranian-supported attacks against Israel and destabilizing activities in the Middle East.
Secretary Austin emphasized the United States' unwavering commitment to Israel, citing the defense against an unprecedented Iranian attack on April 13 and over $14 billion in assistance included in the Bipartisan National Security Supplemental signed by President Biden on April 24.
Austin highlighted that provocations by Lebanese Hizballah could lead to a war detrimental to both Israeli and Lebanese civilians. He reiterated the importance of securing the release of all hostages held by Hamas, including American citizens, praising Minister Gallant for supporting a comprehensive ceasefire and hostage-release proposal endorsed by President Biden and the United Nations Security Council.
Both leaders agreed that Hamas must accept this deal to move forward. Austin underscored that principled diplomacy is essential to prevent further escalation in the region.
Furthermore, Secretary Austin urged Minister Gallant to intensify efforts to protect Palestinian civilians and humanitarian-aid workers in Gaza. They also discussed improving humanitarian aid distribution mechanisms for Palestinian civilians in need and strengthening deconfliction measures for humanitarian workers.
