Washington is “closely monitoring events in Syria, supports a peaceful and inclusive political transition, and will continue the mission to prevent ISIS from re-establishing a safe haven on Syrian territory,” U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told his Israeli counterpart Israel Katz in a phone call on Wednesday.
The Pentagon chief stressed the importance of “close consultation” between the two allies on events in Syria, according to the Pentagon readout of the call provided by Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder.
Austin also highlighted the potential of the Nov. 26 Israel-Lebanon ceasefire to foster conditions for “lasting calm” and enable residents on both sides of the border to safely return to their homes.
Austin reaffirmed that the United States is working closely with international partners to support the agreement’s implementation.
He also reiterated Washington’s commitment to securing the release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, including Americans captured during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack. Additionally, he encouraged the Israeli government to continue efforts to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The defense secretary concluded by reaffirming the United States’ “ironclad commitment to Israel’s security.”
