British News Agency

Israeli Defense Minister Katz reported that he held his first meeting as defense minister with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

Katz thanked Austin for the firm support the United States has shown to Israel since the start of the war, for supporting joint efforts to bring all hostages home, and for the commitment to maintaining strategic ties against threats from Iran and its proxies.

"I am confident that we will meet soon in Israel," said Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz. "I also expressed my gratitude to Secretary Austin for condemning the violent antisemitic attacks in Amsterdam and offering assistance if needed."