US Defense Secretary Austin Supports Israel’s Ground Incursion in Southern Lebanon

Washington, D.C. – As Israeli forces initiate a ground operation in southern Lebanon, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held a critical conversation with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Monday. The discussion focused on the security situation and Israel’s efforts to dismantle Hezbollah’s attack infrastructure in the region, according to a Pentagon statement.

The limited ground incursion in southern Lebanon aims to neutralize Hezbollah’s capabilities along the Israel-Lebanon border, preventing future attacks similar to the October 7 offensive on northern Israeli communities. Pentagon spokesman Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder confirmed that both Austin and Gallant agreed on the necessity of dismantling Hezbollah’s presence in southern Lebanon to safeguard Israeli security.

Israel’s military has intensified operations in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah strongholds as concerns mount over the group’s potential to escalate hostilities. Despite this, President Joe Biden urged for restraint, calling for a ceasefire when asked about Israeli forces’ activities in southern Lebanon, stating, “I’m comfortable with them stopping.”

The Pentagon’s statement also reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel, with Austin emphasizing that the U.S. is well-positioned to defend its personnel and allies in the region, particularly from threats linked to Iran and its proxies operating in southern Lebanon. Austin warned of serious consequences if Iran directly engages Israel militarily.

This latest development highlights the increasing volatility in southern Lebanon and the broader Middle East, as Israeli forces aim to mitigate future risks while the U.S. stands firm in its support. Both countries remain committed to preventing the conflict from expanding while working to dismantle terrorist infrastructure in southern Lebanon.