Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today.
Secretary Austin and Minister Gallant discussed regional instability and the growing risk of escalation from Iran, Lebanese Hizballah, and Iran-backed terrorist groups across the Middle East. Secretary Austin informed the Minister that the United States continues to monitor attack planning from Iran and its proxies and is well-postured across the region to defend Israel and protect U.S. personnel and facilities.
Secretary Austin and Minister Gallant also discussed progress towards securing a ceasefire and the release of all hostages, including eight Americans, held captive by Hamas in Gaza.
