News - US supports Israel's right to self-defense, Pentagon chief says

In a telephone conversation with the Israeli defense minister, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized Washington's unchanging support for Israel's "right to self-defense" against threats from Iran and its allies. "Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke today with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant to reiterate ironclad U.S. support for Israel's security and right to self-defense against threats from Iran, Lebanese Hizballah, Houthis, and other Iranian-backed terrorist groups," Pentagon Press Secretary Pat Ryder noted in a readout that was posted Sunday on the website of the US Department of Defense. It was noted that Austin and Gallant discussed the US army posture moves which are undertaken "to bolster protection for U.S. forces, support the defense of Israel, and deter and de-escalate broader tensions in the region." "Secretary Austin also expressed strong support for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal," the Pentagon added. Earlier, Axios, referring to informed sources, reported that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned his colleagues from the other G7 countries that Iran and Hezbollah's attack on Israel could start as early as Monday.