Austin Reaffirms ‘Ironclad’ US Commitment to Israel After Gallant’s Dismissal

The U.S. defense secretary told Israel’s now-former defense minister he had been a ’trusted partner and friend.’

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin (L) and Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant give a joint press conference in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Dec. 18, 2023. Alberto Pizzaoli/AFP via Getty Images

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to Israel’s security during a call to the country’s now-former defense minister, Yoav Gallant, two days after his dismissal.

According to a Nov. 7, U.S. Defense Department readout of the call, Austin told Gallant he had been a “trusted partner and friend” as Israel’s defense minister and was “deeply valued” for his “expertise, professionalism, and seasoned judgment.”