Department of Defense Chief Spokesman Sean Parnell provided the following readout:
On July 18, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth hosted Israel Minister of Defense Israel Katz to congratulate the Minister on Israel's remarkable performance in the 12-Day War that paved the way for the resounding success of Operation MIDNIGHT HAMMER. Secretary Hegseth applauded Israel's willingness to take bold action to lead in its own defense. The Secretary reinforced that the Department of Defense will continue to enable Israel's ability to defend itself as part of President Trump's mission to achieve Peace Through Strength. Both leaders agreed to work together to address shared threats and pursue peace in the region.