US Defense Secretary Discusses Targeted Ground Strikes with Israel

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant following Israel's targeted ground strikes against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. They agreed on dismantling attack infrastructures along the border to prevent future attacks. Austin emphasized the need for a diplomatic solution to ensure civilian safety.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held discussions with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, following Israel's announcement of targeted ground assaults against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, according to the US Department of Defense.

Both leaders agreed on the necessity of dismantling Hezbollah's attack infrastructures along the border to prevent future aggressions similar to the October 7 assaults on northern Israeli communities, the Pentagon disclosed.

Austin reiterated the importance of a diplomatic solution to ensure civilians could safely return home on both sides of the border, as stated by his office. (Reporting by Jasper Ward; French version by Jean Terzian)

(With inputs from agencies.)