He says it is essential to de-escalate violence at Israel’s northern border.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the importance of diplomat work between Israel and Hezbollah, saying that a formal agreement would be the surest way to reestablish stability at the Israel and Lebanon border. Tens of thousands of civilians on both sides of the border have been evacuated due to the constant use of artillery. The increasing escalation of gunfire in recent weeks has made all-out war a distinct possibility.
“Hezbollah’s provocations threaten to drag the Israeli and Lebanese people into a war that they do not want,” said Secretary Austin said at the start of his meeting with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant at the Pentagon. “Such a war would be a catastrophe for Lebanon, and it would be devastating for innocent Israeli and Lebanese civilians.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Austin to be discerning in his assessment and recommendations to the president and his administration.
- For U.S. defense and military officials as they engage with counterparts in Israel and other Middle Eastern nations.
Sources: Reuters, Bloomberg
