WASHINGTON, USA: US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to discuss Israel’s operations in Lebanon and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
This call follows a letter from the US, urging Israel to improve conditions in Gaza or risk potential limitations on US military aid. Austin acknowledged Israel’s recent efforts to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza but emphasized the need for continued action.
The Pentagon reported that Austin also discussed the US deployment of a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) battery to support Israel’s air defences amid the ongoing conflict. This deployment showcases the US’s firm commitment to Israel’s security. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened, with over 42,000 Palestinians killed, millions displaced, and allegations of genocide, which Israel denies, citing self-defence following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.
The situation in Lebanon, where Israeli military actions against Hezbollah have killed over 2,000 people, was also a key topic, with both nations monitoring the region’s escalating tensions.
