Israel Urges US to Counter Iran, Hezbollah Amid Concerns of Wider Conflict

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant met with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon, seeking continued cooperation against Iran and its proxies while acknowledging the challenges posed by Hezbollah.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant visited the Pentagon on Tuesday, meeting with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to discuss security concerns in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran and its proxies. Gallant emphasized Israel's commitment to diplomatic processes but stressed that it was prepared to defend itself if necessary.

"We are at a crossroads that will impact the entire Middle East," Gallant said. "I am here to discuss the ways to achieve our common goals – ensuring the security of the State of Israel and projecting the powerful ties between our countries."

Israel Urges US to Counter Iran, Hezbollah Amid Concerns of Wider Conflict

Gallant's visit comes amid rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, with Israeli officials warning of a possible full-scale war. An IDF spokesman attributed this escalation to Hezbollah's aggression.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel is committed to diplomacy but insists that any deal with Iran must be on Israel's terms. "We will do what is necessary," Netanyahu said. "We can fight on several fronts, and we are also preparing for it."

Israel Urges US to Counter Iran, Hezbollah Amid Concerns of Wider Conflict

However, concerns have emerged about the potential for the conflict to widen, particularly into Lebanon, which could trigger a broader conflict and endanger US forces. Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Charles Q. Brown Jr. warned that the US is unlikely to assist Israel in an all-out conflict against Hezbollah, fearing it would increase Iran's support for the group.

Brown emphasized the potential for second-order effects of any military operation into Lebanon, including its impact on US forces in the region.

Israel Urges US to Counter Iran, Hezbollah Amid Concerns of Wider Conflict

Gallant stressed that Iran poses the most significant threat to global stability, highlighting the urgency of addressing its nuclear weapons ambitions. "Time is running out," he said. "Now is the time to materialize the commitment of American Administrations over the years — the promise to prevent Iran from possessing nuclear weapons."

Gallant emphasized the strength of the US-Israel alliance, noting that the two sides would hold a meeting of the strategic consultative group on Iran in mid-July to assess their strategy regarding Tehran.

Israel Urges US to Counter Iran, Hezbollah Amid Concerns of Wider Conflict

The US remains committed to working closely with Israel in countering regional threats. The Associated Press contributed to this article.