Israel has a bedrock right to defend itself from terrorism and aggression, said the Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin in his opening remarks at the 16th Ukraine Defense Contact Group.

“Let me say just a few words first about the terrible tragedy that Israel is now enduring. The full horror of the attacks by Hamas continues to become more clear and more appalling. The United States stands firmly with Israel as it defends itself and its citizens from this vile Hamas terrorist assault.

We will stay in close contact with our Israeli partners and ensure that they have what they need to protect their country. As President Biden has made clear, no other party hostile to Israel should try to exploit these despicable attacks.

Like any other country, Israel has a bedrock right to defend itself from terrorism and aggression. And our support for Israel’s security will remain ironclad, especially in this hour of atrocity and challenge”, - said Lloyd Austin.