After talks with Israeli Defense Minister Yves Gallant, United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reiterated that there would be “serious consequences” for Iran if Tehran chose to launch a direct military strike against Israel. “There will be.

The US defense secretary, in his conversation with Gallant, further assured that the US is “well prepared to defend” US personnel, partners and allies in the face of threats from Iran.

“I reaffirmed that a diplomatic resolution is needed to ensure that citizens on both sides of the border can return safely to their homes and made it clear that the United States is working with American officials, partners and is fully prepared to defend allies facing threats from Iran and Iran-backed terrorist organizations and is committed to preventing any actor from exploiting tensions or escalating the conflict.

“I reiterated the dire consequences for Iran if Iran chooses to launch a direct military strike against Israel,” Mr. Austin added.

– The year

See Mr. Austin’s tweet