Remarks by US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin made important statements regarding the latest developments in the Middle East. Austin emphasized that they were meticulously monitoring the situation in the region and were extremely careful to ensure the safety of both Israeli and American soldiers. Recalling that some US soldiers were injured in the attack on the Ayn al-Assad Base in Iraq, Austin said, “The US will absolutely not tolerate attacks on our soldiers serving in the region.”
Iran-Backed Militia Groups
Secretary Austin said that an Iranian-backed Shiite militia was behind the attack on the Ayn al-Assad Base, adding that the current investigation was ongoing and that he refrained from naming a specific group. He also said that they have reorganized their military presence in the Middle East and sent additional military forces to ensure the security of American soldiers and Israel in the region. Austin also noted that they have strengthened their ballistic missile defense and air defense capabilities.
Austin stated that they believe that a reduction in tensions would be beneficial for all countries and that they are working towards this goal. He stated that he believes that if a ceasefire agreement is reached in Gaza and the prisoners are released, tensions in the region will decrease.
Blinken Emphasizes “Turning Point for Ceasefire”
On the other hand, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, while evaluating the possible ceasefire process in Gaza, stated that Hamas’ new political bureau chief Yahya Sinwar has a great responsibility. “Mr. Sinwar is the main decision-maker in achieving this ceasefire, and therefore it is entirely up to him to decide whether to proceed with a ceasefire at this time. This ceasefire will greatly benefit Palestinian women, children and men who are in a desperate situation,” Blinken said.
“We are at a turning point right now. Negotiations have reached their final stages and we believe they should cross the finish line very soon,” Blinken said, adding that such a ceasefire would provide relief for the people of Gaza and allow the prisoners to return to their homes. Blinken said that a ceasefire in Gaza would pave the way for broader regional stability in the Middle East, and that is why they are working hard to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza.
Stating that the escalating tensions in the Middle East in recent weeks have not benefited anyone, including Israel, Blinken said that the US is making continuous efforts to reduce these tensions. “We continue these intensive efforts throughout the region and beyond, and we are pressuring everyone, including Israel, not to take any action that will escalate the conflict,” he said.
