Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided a readout of a conversation between Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, held on October 1, 2024. The discussion focused on the threat of an imminent Iranian attack against Israel.
Secretary Austin informed Minister Gallant that the United States has recently increased force readiness and maintains significant military capability in the region. "The United States is well-postured to defend U.S. personnel, allies, and partners in the face of threats from Iran and Iran-backed terrorist organizations," said Austin. He emphasized that the U.S. is determined to prevent any actor from exploiting tensions or expanding the conflict in the region.
Both officials discussed potential severe consequences for Iran should it choose to launch a direct military attack against Israel.
