On October 1, 2024 – U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated on Monday (September 30) that he had discussions with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant regarding security developments and ground operations in Israel.
Austin expressed that the United States supports Israel’s right to defend itself against Iran, Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas, Houthi rebels, and other Iran-backed terrorist organizations.
In a statement, Austin remarked, “We agree on the need to dismantle attack infrastructures along the border to ensure that Hezbollah cannot launch attacks similar to October 7th on communities in northern Israel.”
He reiterated the necessity for resolving the situation diplomatically to ensure the safe return of civilians to their homes on both sides of the border.
Austin further emphasized, “I make it clear that the United States is prepared to protect American personnel, partners, and allies in the face of threats from Iran and Iran-backed terrorist organizations, and is determined to prevent anyone from exploiting tense situations and escalating conflicts.”
“I reiterate, if Iran chooses to launch a direct military attack on Israel, it will face serious consequences,” Austin stressed.
Before the call between the two defense ministers, the Israeli military announced in a statement that they had initiated “limited, localized, and targeted ground attacks” on Hezbollah positions near the border in southern Lebanon posing a direct threat to communities in northern Israel, based on precise intelligence.
The Israeli military reported intense fighting in parts of southern Lebanon and urged people not to enter the area south of the Litani River.
On Tuesday (October 1), Avichay Adraee, the Arabic-speaking spokesperson for the Israeli military, posted on X platform that people should not drive into areas south of the Litani River, where there are dozens of towns and villages near the Israeli border.