Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III addressed the media at Joint Base Andrews on September 27, 2024, following his return from the AUKUS Defence Ministers' Meeting in London. He commented on reports of a significant Israeli strike in Beirut.
"I spoke by phone earlier today to my counterpart in Israel Minister Gallant," Austin said. "The United States was not involved in Israel's operation. We had no advance warning. My call with Minister Gallant took place while Israel's operation was already underway."
Austin noted that assessments of the situation were still ongoing and that he did not have further information or specifics to provide at that time. He emphasized the importance of avoiding an all-out war.
"Diplomacy continues to be the best way forward — and it's the fastest way to let displaced Israeli and Lebanese citizens return to their homes on both sides of the border," he stated.
Austin mentioned that he would be speaking with Minister Gallant again soon for an update on the situation.
"Thank you," he concluded.
