U.S. Defense Secretary Discusses Middle East Strategies with Israeli Defense Minister

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant discussed defensive measures in the Middle East, with a focus on defending Israel and achieving a Gaza ceasefire. The U.S. has deployed F-22 Raptors to the region to deter aggression and protect both Israeli and U.S. forces.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin called Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday to discuss U.S. defensive measures in the Middle East. Topics included defending Israel and negotiating a Gaza ceasefire, according to Austin's post on social media platform X.

Austin announced that the U.S. has deployed F-22 Raptors to the region as part of multiple efforts to deter aggression, defend Israel, and protect U.S. forces in the area.

He also emphasized the importance of finalizing a ceasefire deal in Gaza that would include the release of hostages.

(With inputs from agencies.)