Washington, 26 October 2024 (dpa/MIA) - US Defense Secrertary Lloyd Austin reassured his Israeli counterpart in a phone call, following Israel's retaliatory attack against Iran on Saturday, of US support for Israel's right to defend itself.

"Secretary Austin reaffirmed the ironclad commitment of the United States to Israel's security and right to self-defense," said a statement released by the Pentagon.

Austin spoke with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to get updates about Israel's strikes in Iran.

Austin said the US is committed to defending US personnel, Israel and partners throughout the region against Iran and Iran-backed terrorist groups.

The secretary also said it the US is determined to "prevent any actor from exploiting tensions or expanding the conflict in the region."