Foto: Depositphotos
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed that Washington is ready to support Israel in the event of an attack on the country, while emphasizing the importance of de-escalating tensions in the region. This statement was made after the elimination of Hamas leader Ismail Hania in Iran, reports Time Ukraine Israel with reference to Reuters.
Speaking at a press conference in the Philippines, Austin said: “We will work hard to make sure we do everything we can to reduce tensions and resolve issues through diplomatic meetings. We don’t want something like that to happen.” He also emphasized that he does not consider a large-scale war in the Middle East inevitable: “I think there is always a place and opportunity for diplomacy.”
The minister’s statements came after reports of the assassination of the Hezbollah commander responsible for the deadly strike on the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. When asked about confirmation of information regarding the elimination of Ismail Hania in Iran, Austin said: “I do not have any additional information.”
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed Hania’s death and said it was investigating. In turn, Hamas called the strike a “hard escalation” that did not achieve its goals.
