Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, 1:03pm MDT
Israel Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant recently completed a second call with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin since the operations conducted this morning. Gallant and Austin held a joint security situation assessment, reviewing the successful activities conducted to thwart an extensive Hezbollah attack on Israel.
Gallant and Austin discussed ongoing joint efforts to deter Iran and its proxies and to restore regional stability, while ensuring Israel’s security and ability to defend itself. In this regard, Gallant expressed his appreciation to Austin for the close cooperation and coordination between Israel and the US, including intelligence-sharing.
The two also discussed ongoing efforts to achieve a framework for the release of hostages and reiterated their shared commitment to achieving an agreement.
Earlier today, Gallant briefed the UK Secretary of State for Defence John Healey on the imminent Hezbollah attack that was prevented early this morning, using precise strikes on Hezbollah sites in Lebanon. Gallant discussed the activities conducted by the IDF in thwarting an extensive attack against Israeli civilians and military positions.
Gallant discussed the important cooperation with Britain in ensuring Israel’s security. He also discussed the UK’s important role in maintaining regional stability, and in this regard emphasized the importance of preventing regional escalation.
Gallant and Healey also discussed ongoing efforts to achieve a framework for the release of hostages and agreed on the urgency of achieving an agreement. The onus must now be placed on Hamas.
Gallant expressed his appreciation to Healey for the excellent defense cooperation between the respective nations, and for his personal leadership and commitment to Israel’s security.
