Lloyd J. Austin III Secretary of Defence | Official website
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III engaged in a phone conversation with Turkish Minister of National Defense Yasar Guler to address ongoing developments in Syria, according to Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder.
During the call, Secretary Austin highlighted the United States' close monitoring of statements and actions by various opposition groups in Syria. He and Minister Guler concurred on the necessity for these groups to take measures to protect civilians, including ethnic and religious minorities, while adhering to international humanitarian norms.
Both officials reaffirmed the importance of maintaining close coordination between the United States and Turkiye. This collaboration aims to prevent further escalation in an already volatile situation and mitigate any risks to U.S. forces, partners, and the Defeat-ISIS Mission.
Secretary Austin acknowledged Turkiye's legitimate security concerns during their discussion. He also addressed the threats posed by ISIS and other malign actors within the region.
