NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte dismissed concerns about the US's commitment to NATO amid ongoing tensions over Ukraine and Russia, emphasizing the importance of European allies' security and the US's ongoing support, despite some disagreements and troop reductions.
President Biden has reaffirmed the US commitment to defend Israel against potential Iranian attacks, amid rising concerns in Washington that Iran may launch a significant strike in retaliation for the bombing of an Iranian consular building in Damascus. Tensions have escalated with Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, vowing to retaliate against Israel, and Israel's foreign minister, Israel Katz, promising to respond if Iran attacks from its territory. The Biden administration is seeking to prevent escalation and maintain diplomatic efforts to deter further conflict in the region.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant to discuss Israel's operations in Gaza, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to Israel's right to defend itself and the importance of protecting civilians and providing humanitarian aid. He also emphasized the U.S. commitment to deter any escalation of the conflict by state or non-state actors.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III reaffirmed the strong U.S. commitment to Israel's defense during a call with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, discussing Israel's response to Hamas' recent terrorist attack. Austin emphasized the need to deter any state or non-state actor seeking to escalate the conflict.