US Reaffirms Its 'Ironclad' Support To Israel Amid Hezbollah Attacks

The United States has reiterated its unwavering commitment to Israel's defense amid escalating tensions with Hezbollah.

Following Israel's military strikes in Lebanon to thwart what it described as an imminent attack by the Iran-backed militant group, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reassured Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant of America's steadfast support.

Photo Credit: PTI

According to Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder, Austin emphasised the "ironclad commitment to Israel's defense against any attacks by Iran and its regional partners and proxies."

The US has also signaled its readiness to support Israel if the situation escalates further.

"The United States has been very clear that it is postured to support the defense of Israel," a Pentagon spokesperson added.

In response to the growing threat, Gallant declared a 48-hour nationwide state of emergency in Israel, stating that the preemptive strikes were necessary "to thwart an imminent threat against the citizens of Israel."

The Israeli Defense Ministry reported that Gallant had kept Austin informed about the ongoing situation.

The US National Security Council, represented by spokesman Sean Savett, also confirmed that senior US officials have been in continuous communication with their Israeli counterparts under the direction of President Joe Biden, who is "closely monitoring events in Israel and Lebanon."

Savett reaffirmed, "We will keep supporting Israel's right to defend itself, and we will keep working for regional stability."

Meanwhile, Hezbollah announced large-scale drone and rocket attacks deep into Israeli territory on Sunday, in retaliation for the death of one of its military commanders in an Israeli strike last month.