Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has canceled his planned visit to the US as tensions escalate in the Middle East following an escalation in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The Pentagon has confirmed that Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has postponed his scheduled trip to the United States. The announcement came amid heightened tensions in the Middle East as the Israel-Hamas conflict intensifies.
Deputy Pentagon press secretary Sabrina Singh informed reporters that Gallant had informed the Pentagon of his decision to postpone his trip to Washington, D.C. She explained that Minister Gallant was initially planning to visit the US, and the Pentagon had anticipated hosting him for a bilateral meeting.
Israeli Defense Minister Postpones US Trip Amidst Heightened Israel-Hamas Conflict
When questioned about reports suggesting that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had requested Gallant to cancel his trip, Singh acknowledged her awareness of the reports but declined to comment on Israeli political matters.
Singh emphasized the robust relationship between Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Gallant, highlighting their numerous conversations and ongoing communication. She stressed that the relationship remains intact and that they can continue to communicate through various means, including in-person meetings or remote platforms.
Israeli Defense Minister Postpones US Trip Amidst Heightened Israel-Hamas Conflict
Singh dismissed suggestions of any tensions between Austin and Gallant, stating that "direct conversations can happen between friends" and that disagreements do not necessarily imply tensions.
During a recent interview with Fox News, Gallant indicated that Israel is considering all options in response to Iran's attacks against the country, including the possibility of targeting Iranian nuclear sites.
Israeli Defense Minister Postpones US Trip Amidst Heightened Israel-Hamas Conflict
Israeli forces recently invaded Lebanon in a mission to eliminate Hezbollah, following successful strikes against the terrorist group. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, which prompted Iran's retaliatory missile attacks.
US President Joe Biden declared that he would not support a strike against Iran's nuclear facilities but acknowledged Israel's right to respond "proportionately." Vice President Kamala Harris pledged to provide $157 million in additional assistance to Lebanon, which is said to be facing a worsening humanitarian situation.
Israeli Defense Minister Postpones US Trip Amidst Heightened Israel-Hamas Conflict
Minister Gallant expressed his hope for continued cooperation with the United States military amidst the White House's response to the IDF's recent strikes. He emphasized the importance of discussing strategic and defense cooperation in light of threats posed by Iran and its proxies.
This report includes contributions from Fox News Digital correspondents Andrea Margolis, Trey Yingst, Greg Norman, Stephen Sorace, and Michael Lee.
