The United States has reiterated its unwavering commitment to Israel’s defense, declaring its readiness to support its ally after Israel launched airstrikes in Lebanon to preempt a major attack by Hezbollah. The strikes, described by Israel as preemptive, came after the Israeli military detected an imminent threat from the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, on Sunday, following the strikes. In a statement, Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder conveyed that Secretary Austin “reaffirmed the United States’ ironclad commitment to Israel’s defense against any attacks by Iran and its regional partners and proxies.” A separate Pentagon statement emphasized that the US is “postured to support the defense of Israel,” signaling a clear stance of backing Israel in this volatile situation.
Israel, in response to the perceived threat, declared a 48-hour nationwide state of emergency, beginning at 06:00 am (0300 GMT) Sunday. Defense Minister Gallant briefed Secretary Austin on the situation, outlining the rationale for the preemptive strikes in Lebanon. “We have conducted precise strikes in Lebanon in order to thwart an imminent threat against the citizens of Israel,” Gallant conveyed to Austin, according to a statement.
The White House also issued statements reaffirming its support for Israel’s right to defend itself. US National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett confirmed that “senior US officials have been communicating continuously with their Israeli counterparts” under the direction of President Joe Biden, who was “closely monitoring events in Israel and Lebanon.” Savett underscored that the US would “keep supporting Israel’s right to defend itself, and we will keep working for regional stability.”
Hezbollah, in response to the Israeli strikes, declared large-scale drone and rocket launches targeting deep into Israeli territory. The group cited the recent death of its military commander in an Israeli strike last month as the catalyst for its retaliation.
The escalation of tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, fueled by the ongoing conflict in the region, underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. The US, as a steadfast ally of Israel, has signaled its unwavering support for its defense against any perceived threats, highlighting the intricate balance of power in the Middle East.
