The Pentagon said in a statement that American forces in the Middle East intercepted several missiles launched by Iran towards Israel.
The statement added: “We condemn this horrific act of aggression by Iran, and call on it to stop any further attacks, including those launched by its proxy terrorist groups.”
He continued: “We will never hesitate to protect our forces and interests in the Middle East, and support the defense of Israel and our partners in the region.”
The statement quoted Austin as saying: “I am extremely proud of the skill and courage of the American forces who helped save lives from the Iranian attack, and continue to support the Israeli defense and prevent the conflict from expanding or escalating.”
The US Secretary of Defense added: “Our forces are still stationed to protect American forces and their partners in… The Middle EastThe Ministry maintains a great ability to defend our people, provide more support for Israeli self-defense, and deter further escalation.”
In the same context, Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Galantfollowing the Iranian attack.
The two ministers expressed their “mutual appreciation for Israel’s coordinated defense to repel approximately 200 ballistic missiles from Iran, which helped prevent significant casualties and damage,” according to a Pentagon statement.
