According to Jerusalem Post reports, they also discussed the need to bolster American forces to protect US personnel, support Israel's defence, and help reduce regional tensions. Lloyd Austin spoke with Defence Minister Gallant to "reiterate ironclad US support for Israel's security."
Austin also voiced his support for a ceasefire in Gaza and efforts to secure the release of hostages.
General Michael Kurilla, the commander of US Central Command, arrived in Israel on Monday to finalize coordination with the IDF in preparation for potential attacks by Iran and Hezbollah, according to senior Israeli officials.
**Home Front Preparations**
The G7 ministers expressed concern over the escalating tension in the region and urged all parties to avoid further retaliatory violence, lower tensions, and seek constructive de-escalation. On Sunday night, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defence Minister Gallant, and leaders from the military and intelligence communities convened to discuss Iran and Hezbollah's possible responses and Israel's strategy.
Netanyahu emphasized Israel's determination to confront Iran and its allies, stating, "Iran and its agents are looking to surround us with a stranglehold of terror. We are determined to stand up to them on every front and in every arena - near and far. Whoever seeks to harm us will pay a very heavy price."
An Israeli official told NBC News on Monday that Israel is preparing for a multi-day attack from Iran and Hezbollah. The official indicated that unlike the April attack, the upcoming assaults could extend over several days, with Hezbollah targeting Israel from the north and Iran deploying longer-range missiles from the east.
**Regional Developments**
Other countries in the region are bracing for possible escalation and are taking preventive measures. Japan and Turkey have advised their citizens to leave Lebanon due to fears of further escalation.
Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi made a rare visit to Tehran on Sunday, the first by a Jordanian foreign minister in nearly a decade. Jordan is concerned about potential Iranian missile and drone attacks that might traverse its airspace. During the April 13 attack, Jordan intercepted Iranian drones and permitted US and Israeli fighter jets to use its airspace to counter Iranian threats. Safadi met with Acting Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri and delivered a message from King Abdullah II to the Iranian President. Safadi clarified that his visit was to express concerns about regional escalation and was not intended to convey messages from or to Israel.
In response to Haniyeh’s assassination, Iranian officials have vowed severe retaliation, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps promising revenge at a time and place of their choosing. However, Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson Kanaani stated that while Iran seeks to punish Israel, it does not intend to escalate regional tensions further.
