US defense chief asks for Israeli official's support to enable more humanitarian aid into Gaza

WASHINGTON

US defense chief Lloyd Austin voiced concern about the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, the Pentagon said Tuesday.

During a meeting with Israeli War Cabinet member Benny Gantz in Washington, Austin condemned Hamas’ attack against Israel on Oct. 7 and demanded the release of all hostages held by the Palestinian resistance group, the Pentagon said in a statement.

"The Secretary expressed strong concerns over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and requested Minister Gantz’s support in enabling more humanitarian assistance and distribution into Gaza," it said.

Austin emphasized the "critical need for a credible and implementable plan" for protecting civilians and addressing the humanitarian situation before any ground operations in Rafah, according to the Pentagon.

Gantz flew to Washington for talks with top US officials, including Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.