Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant yesterday to discuss post-conflict planning for Gaza, the need to increase humanitarian assistance for Palestinian civilians in Gaza, and West Bank stabilization efforts. Secretary Austin reiterated the need to protect civilians as Israel conducts its operations against Hamas. Secretary Austin and Minister Gallant also discussed the U.S. response to attacks against U.S. forces by Iranian-aligned militia groups.