Attributed to Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder:
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III met with Israeli War Cabinet Member Benny Gantz today. Secretary Austin condemned Hamas' attack against Israel on October 7 and called for the release of all hostages held by Hamas. The Secretary expressed strong concerns over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and requested Minister Gantz's support in enabling more humanitarian assistance and distribution into Gaza. The Secretary emphasized the critical need for a credible and implementable plan for protecting civilians and addressing the humanitarian situation prior to any ground operations in Rafah.