Today, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III traveled to Israel to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, and the Israeli War Cabinet. During his visit, the Secretary reiterated the United States' ironclad support for Israel in the wake of Hamas' abhorrent terrorist attack, and reaffirmed President Biden's message of U.S. commitment to deterring actors that may seek to escalate this conflict.
Secretary Austin highlighted how the United States is expediting security assistance to Israel, including precision guided munitions and air defense ammunition.
Secretary Austin highlighted that the USS Gerald R. Ford Strike Group is now operating in the eastern Mediterranean, and that U.S. Air Force fighter squadrons have been bolstered in the region.
The Secretary committed to deploying additional assets as needed, and to remaining in close contact with Minister Gallant in the days and weeks ahead.
