US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin engaged in a conversation with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant to address pressing concerns regarding regional threats and Iran's destabilizing activities in the Middle East, as per a Pentagon readout released on Thursday. The discussion took place prior to Israel's recent strike inside Iran, although the readout did not make any reference to Israel's intentions to carry out an attack.
During the call, Austin emphasized the significance of enhancing and maintaining the provision of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. This included highlighting the establishment of a new aid route from Ashdod Port in Israel, aimed at facilitating the flow of essential supplies to those in need.
Furthermore, a senior US official disclosed that Israel had informed the United States of its plans to retaliate against Iran in the near future. This revelation underscores the complex dynamics at play in the region and the ongoing efforts to address escalating tensions.
