U.S. Defense Secretary’s Ongoing Commitment to Israel Amid Rising Tensions
On Sunday, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III engaged in a conversation with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant. This marks the third discussion the two officials have had within a week, reflecting escalating concerns over potential conflicts between Israel and Iran.
During their call, Mr. Austin reiterated the unwavering commitment of the United States to take all necessary measures to defend Israel. This statement was highlighted in a summary provided by Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder.
In a rare move, General Ryder disclosed that Mr. Austin had ordered the deployment of the ballistic-missile submarine Georgia to the Middle East. Such announcements regarding the movements of the submarine fleet are typically not made public, underscoring the gravity of the situation in the region.
General Ryder further emphasized that Mr. Austin has already authorized the dispatch of additional combat aircraft and missile-capable warships to the area. These orders were issued in response to escalating threats from Iran and its allied proxies located in Gaza, Lebanon, and Yemen, who have vowed to retaliate against Israel in response to the assassination of a prominent Hamas leader, Ismail Haniyeh, in Tehran on July 31.
Additionally, Mr. Austin has directed the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, which is outfitted with F-35 fighter jets, to expedite its arrival in the region. This deployment is intended to reinforce the presence of the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt and its accompanying fleet already stationed in the Gulf of Oman.
An official statement from the Israeli government indicated that Mr. Gallant discussed with Mr. Austin the Israeli military’s preparedness and capabilities in light of the threats posed by Iran and its regional allies. The Israeli defense minister also addressed the urgent need to secure an agreement for the release of hostages and expressed gratitude to the U.S. administration for its leadership and commitment to this pressing issue.
The United States, alongside Arab mediators, is in the process of formulating what they describe as a “final” proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza, which is expected to be presented at a meeting scheduled for Thursday in the Middle East. Israel has indicated that its negotiators will participate in this meeting, although Hamas has not confirmed whether its representatives will attend.
The conversation between Mr. Austin and Mr. Gallant occurred just one day after an Israeli airstrike targeted a school compound in northern Gaza, where displaced Palestinians had sought refuge. Gazan authorities reported that this airstrike resulted in the deaths of dozens. During the call, Mr. Austin took the opportunity to reiterate the critical importance of “mitigating civilian harm” during Israeli military operations in the enclave, as highlighted by General Ryder.
