Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III held a phone conversation with Bahrain's Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. The discussion aimed to reaffirm the longstanding defense partnership between the United States and Bahrain and to address regional issues.

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder shared that Secretary Austin expressed gratitude for Bahrain's contribution to regional security. This includes hosting U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (USNAVCENT) and the U.S. Fifth Fleet, as well as participating in Operation Prosperity Guardian.

The dialogue covered various security matters, such as efforts towards achieving a ceasefire in Gaza, de-escalation in Lebanon, and countering Houthi threats to navigation freedom in the Red Sea. Secretary Austin emphasized the U.S.'s commitment to de-escalation through deterrence and diplomacy while ensuring the protection of American citizens and forces in the Middle East.

Additionally, Secretary Austin encouraged ongoing bilateral cooperation in areas that bolster Bahrain’s defense capabilities and enhance regional stability and security.