From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, October 2, 2024
US ‘fulfilled commitment’ to defend Israel amid Iranian attack, defense chief says
Jacob Magid is The Times of Israel's US bureau chief
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says the US “fulfilled our commitment to partner with Israel in its defense” after intercepting roughly a dozen of the 181 missiles fired by Iran at Israel on Tuesday evening.
“We condemn this outrageous act of aggression by Iran, and we call on Iran to halt any further attacks, including from its proxy terrorist groups,” Austin says in a statement, adding that the US “will never hesitate to protect our forces and interests in the Middle East and to support the defense of Israel and our partners in the region.”
He hails US forces who “helped to save lives today from Iran’s assault and who continue to support Israel’s defense and to prevent a widening conflict or escalation.”
“Our forces remain postured to protect US troops and partners in the Middle East, and the department maintains significant capability to defend our people, provide further support for Israel’s self-defense, and deter further escalation,” Austin adds.
