The US and Israel agreed on the need to destroy Hezbollah facilities along the border

The United States and Israel agreed on the “need to dismantle attack infrastructure” along the border with Lebanon, the Pentagon said.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant to review security developments and Israeli actions, his department said in a statement.

The United States and Israel agreed on the “need to dismantle attack infrastructure along the border” to ensure that Hezbollah’s Lebanese militia cannot carry out “October 7-style attacks on Israel’s northern communities,” the statement said.

“The Secretary confirmed that a diplomatic resolution is required to ensure civilians can safely return to their homes on both sides of the border.”

The two also discussed “the importance of finally transitioning from military to diplomatic operations to ensure security and stability as soon as possible,” she added in a statement.

Austin again assured Israel of Washington’s full support in defending against Iran-backed terrorist organizations, the Pentagon said.

The Israeli military said early Tuesday morning that it had launched “targeted ground strikes based on precise intelligence” against Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon.

Before Israel’s announcement, Washington said late on Monday that it had been briefed on planned “limited operations” on the Lebanese border.

The Pentagon added that the United States is well prepared to defend its personnel, partners and allies in the face of threats from Iran and Iran-backed terrorist organizations.

“Secretary and Minister Gallant discussed the serious consequences for Iran if Iran decides to launch a direct military attack on Israel,” he added in the statement.