Crisis in the Middle East - The US says it will give Israel "iron support"
Israel can count on U.S. military aid in case of an Iranian retaliatory strike, according to U.S. government statements. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart Joav Galant on Sunday (local time) and assured him of "ironclad support" for self-defense, the Pentagon later announced.
The conversation also touched on U.S. troop movements as a security measure - to enhance the protection of U.S. forces, strengthen Israel's defense capabilities, and for deterrence purposes to ease tensions in the region, it was reported. Austin also advocated for a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict and an agreement for the release of hostages remaining in the Gaza Strip, his ministry further stated.
Given Iran's recent threats of an attack on Israel, it remains unclear when and how the threatened retaliatory strike could occur. Statements from Iranian leadership and the Lebanese Hezbollah militia allied with it have repeatedly mentioned "the next few days."
The news portal "Axios" reported, citing assessments by three American and Israeli government officials, that Iran could strike as early as Monday. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reportedly told his counterparts during a meeting of the G7 foreign ministers a timeframe of 24 to 48 hours.
Despite the potential for an Iranian retaliatory strike on Monday as suggested by some sources, the conversation between Austin and Galant emphasized the U.S.'s commitment to Israel's defense, affirming this support on Sunday, the day of their discussion. Regardless of the impending threats, both leaders reiterated the importance of strengthening Israel's defense capabilities and maintaining regional stability.
