Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke on the phone yesterday with Qatar's newly appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, His Excellency Sheikh Saoud Al Thani, to reaffirm the U.S.-Qatar defense partnership, review opportunities to enhance defense cooperation, and discuss regional security developments.
During the call, the Secretary emphasized the Department's commitment to regional de-escalation through deterrence and diplomacy, including through U.S. efforts to support implementation of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, uphold the enduring defeat of ISIS, and degrade Houthi military capabilities jeopardizing the free flow of commerce in the Red Sea. He further reinforced the urgent need to secure the release of all hostages held by Hamas and achieve a ceasefire in Gaza.
