"Sec. Austin's Visit to Israel: A Tougher Message and Lessons Learned"

Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III has made his second visit to Israel since the recent conflict in Gaza, emphasizing the Biden administration's support for Israel while expressing concerns about the rising Palestinian death toll. Austin warned that Israel could face "strategic defeat" if it does not do more to protect civilians. With his military experience in combat, including urban warfare, Austin is taking a more prominent role in navigating the Gaza crisis and revealing more of himself.