"Defense Head Urges Unwavering American Leadership Amid Troubling Times"
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin denounced calls for American isolationism and emphasized the need for sustained U.S. leadership to maintain global security and prosperity. He urged Congress to end partisan gridlock and pass the federal budget and war spending. Austin defended U.S. support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas and Ukraine in its battle against Russia's invasion. He warned that the world would become more dangerous if aggressors believed they could act without consequences. Austin also highlighted the importance of passing supplemental funding for the wars and criticized the Senate's failure to confirm military nominations, which threatens readiness and national security.