US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed recent developments regarding Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in a phone call this evening with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, according to a Pentagon press release.

During the conversation, Austin “the enhanced force posture of the United States to defend U.S. personnel, Israel, and partners across the region,” as reported by Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder.

"The US is determined to prevent any actor from exploiting the tensions or expanding the conflict in the region," the Pentagon statement said.