Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Israel Katz today to discuss regional developments and reaffirm the United States' ironclad commitment to Israel's security. Secretary Austin emphasized that the ceasefire accepted by Israel and Lebanese Hizballah on November 26 has the potential to create the conditions to restore lasting calm and enable residents on both sides of the Israel-Lebanon border to return safely to their homes. The Secretary reiterated that the United States is consulting closely with our international partners to support the implementation of the ceasefire. He also told Minister Katz that the United States is closely monitoring events in Syria, supports a peaceful and inclusive political transition, and will continue the mission to prevent ISIS from re-establishing a safe haven on Syrian territory. Secretary Austin emphasized the importance of close consultation between the United States and Israel on events in Syria. The Secretary emphasized the U.S. commitment to securing the release of all hostages in Gaza, including U.S. citizens, and urged the Government of Israel to continue to take steps to improve the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
Austin Talks With Israeli Defense Minister Katz 12 December
U.S. Department of Defense
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