U.S. Secretary of Defense Austin spoke by telephone with Israeli Defense Minister Gallant on September 30, and they agreed on the need to destroy the “attack infrastructure” of the pro-Iranian militia Hezbollah near the Lebanese border. Announced by the Department of Defense. He showed some understanding of the Israeli army’s ground invasion of Lebanon.

Austin reiterated his support for Israel’s right to self-defense against Hezbollah and its backers, including Iran. They shared the understanding that the purpose of this invasion was to prevent Hezbollah from launching a surprise attack on northern Israel.

Both men warned that there would be serious consequences if Iran launched a direct attack on Israel in retaliation. They also discussed the importance of exploring diplomatic avenues for the return of residents near the Israel-Lebanon border who were evacuated after the invasion. (joint)