Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today to discuss the need to increase humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians in Gaza, including through Kerem Shalom and Rafah crossings. Secretary Austin discussed U.S. progress on opening the maritime corridor to surge humanitarian assistance to Gaza. Minister Gallant and Secretary Austin reviewed the latest efforts to secure the release of hostages held captive by Hamas. Secretary Austin reinforced the unquestionable necessity to ensure the protection of civilians alongside the uninterrupted flow of aid before any potential Israeli military operation in Rafah.
Secretary Austin reaffirmed the United States' ironclad commitment to Israel's security and the defeat of Hamas.
