US Supports Israel's 'Right To Defend Itself' As Ground Operations Begin In Lebanon, Warns Iran Of 'Serious Consequences'

After Israel's military operations in Lebanon, the United States (US) has extended its support for 'Israel’s right to defend itself.'

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin talked to Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant on Tuesday (1 October) to discuss security developments and Israeli operations.

"We agreed on the necessity of dismantling attack infrastructure along the border to ensure that Lebanese Hizballah cannot conduct October 7-style attacks on Israel’s northern communities," he said.

On 7 October 2023, almost a year ago, Hamas terrorists, supported by Hezbollah, attacked Israel without any provocation. Since then, Israel has been carrying out retaliatory attacks.

"I reaffirmed that a diplomatic resolution is required to ensure that civilians can return safely to their homes on both sides of the border," Austin added.

He asserted that the US is well-postured to defend its personnel, partners, and allies in the face of threats from Iran and Iran-backed terrorist organisations.

He added that the US is determined to prevent any actor from exploiting tensions or expanding the conflict and threatened Iran with 'serious consequences' if it launches a direct military attack against Israel.

The remarks come after Israeli ground forces entered southern Lebanon early Tuesday, marking a major step in the conflict with Hezbollah militants.

This opens another front in its yearlong fight against Iranian-backed forces. The last time Israel and Hezbollah fought on the ground was in a 2006 war that lasted a month.