Lloyd J. Austin III Secretary of Defence | Official website
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III held an introductory call today with the new Egyptian Minister of Defense, General Abd-al-Majid Ahmad Saqr, and congratulated him on his recent appointment. They reaffirmed the enduring strategic partnership between the United States and Egypt, highlighting the importance of U.S.-Egypt defense ties and their shared commitment to regional security and stability.
Secretary Austin and General Saqr discussed the Israel-Hamas conflict that began with Hamas' terrorist attacks on October 7, mutual efforts to increase humanitarian assistance into Gaza, and the urgency of securing the release of hostages held by Hamas while achieving a ceasefire through ongoing negotiations.
Both leaders emphasized preventing the widening of the current conflict and working with all parties to deescalate regional tensions. They agreed to maintain close communication, address mutual security challenges together, and seek opportunities to enhance defense cooperation.
