Following Israel’s precision strike on military targets in Iran on October 25, U.S. officials expressed hope for a de-escalation between the two nations. The strike was in response to Iran’s October 1 attack, which involved launching 200 ballistic missiles into Israel, most of which were intercepted. Minimal damage was reported from the few that reached their targets.
During a weekend call, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III reassured Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant of the U.S.’s unwavering support for Israel’s security. Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh emphasized, “We believe that this should be the end of this tit-for-tat,” urging Iran not to retaliate and to view this as an opportunity for de-escalation.
Austin further emphasized the potential for diplomatic solutions, including hostage release negotiations and cease-fire efforts in Gaza, and agreements in Lebanon to enable civilians to return safely to their homes.
Meanwhile, reports indicate North Korean troops have started training in Russia to assist with Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine, potentially escalating regional tensions. The U.S. condemned this as a sign of “President Putin’s increasing desperation,” according to Singh, as Russia has sustained over 500,000 casualties since its invasion in 2022.
Later this week, Secretary Austin will meet with South Korean Minister of National Defense Kim Yong-hyun for the 56th U.S.-Republic of Korea Security Consultative Meeting, where North Korea’s deployment of troops to Russia is expected to be a key topic.–News Desk