Overnight, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant spoke with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

Minister Gallant and Secretary Austin conducted a joint assessment of the situation and exchanged views on regional developments and threats. Their discussion focused primarily on joint preparation, as well as maintaining the readiness and interoperability of Israeli and American forces and capabilities in the face of ongoing threats posed by Iran and Hezbollah against Israel.

Minister Gallant also briefed the Secretary on developments in the fight against Hamas in Gaza, detailing the achievements of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in defeating the Rafah Brigade of Hamas and destroying over 150 tunnels in the area. In this regard, Minister Gallant emphasized the importance of ongoing operations for the dismantling of the remaining terrorist infrastructure, the elimination of terrorist operatives and the destruction of Hamas tunnels.

Gallant and Secretary Austin discussed at length the efforts being made to reach an agreement on the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Minister Gallant reiterated his unwavering commitment to reaching an agreement and emphasized the critical time involved in securing this framework.

Gallant expressed his appreciation to Secretary Austin for his leadership and personal commitment to Israel's security and thanked the US administration for its continued support since October 7./TPS