United States (Washington Insider Magazine)-US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin spoke with Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman on Friday to address regional security challenges, according to Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder. They highlighted their mutual interest in deterring aggression and reducing tensions in the region.
Both officials agreed to enhance the US-Saudi defense partnership to restore stability. In addition, Austin engaged in discussions with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, emphasizing Israel’s need to pursue diplomatic negotiations to ease tensions with Hizballah along the Lebanon-Israel border.
With around 70,000 Israelis displaced from northern areas and approximately 100,000 fleeing toward Beirut, the situation remains critical. While reaffirming support for Israel’s self-defense, the Pentagon has urged against a broader military campaign in Lebanon, warning of devastating consequences for Israel, Lebanon, and the surrounding region.
