Israeli defense minister briefs US on IDF operations and "efforts focused on the southern Gaza region"
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant spoke with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on Thursday to discuss the ongoing operations in Gaza, including the military's "major efforts" focused on the southern part of the enclave, according to the readout from the Israeli Minister of Defense's office.
The discussion between Gallant and Austin follows comments from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier this week that Israeli soldiers will soon shift the focus of their offensive to Rafah, a southern Gaza Strip city close to the border with Egypt, despite US concerns.
"Minister Gallant opened the discussion by expressing his sincere condolences following the passing of five U.S. Marines," said the readout, released on Friday. "In this regard, he emphasized the importance of U.S. leadership in addressing Iran’s regional aggression and ambitions."
Gallant also reiterated the Israeli military's war aims, "including the return of hostages and the destruction of Hamas’ military and governing capabilities," according to the readout.
"Minister Gallant briefed the Secretary on developments in the war against the Hamas terrorist organization in Gaza, detailing the IDF’s ongoing operations above and under the ground, with major efforts focused on the southern Gaza region," the Minister of Defense's office added.
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