US forces remain postured to provide further support for Israel's defense and enhance regional stability, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said in a statement late Saturday night.
At the direction of President Biden, Austin said US forces intercepted dozens of missiles and UAVs en route to Israel launched from Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen.
Austin said he is grateful for the professionalism and skill of the US troops who took part in Saturday's actions and who will continue to stand guard to prevent further conflict or escalation.
"We condemn these reckless and unprecedented attacks by Iran and its proxies, and we call on Iran to immediately halt any further attacks, including from its proxy forces, and to deescalate tensions," Austin said. "We do not seek conflict with Iran, but we will not hesitate to act to protect our forces and support the defense of Israel."
Blinken: 'US commitment to Israel's security is ironclad'
Secretary of State Antony Blinken also released a brief statement on X early Sunday morning.
"The United States condemns Iran’s attack on Israel. As the President said, our commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran is ironclad," Blinken said in a post on X.
The United States condemns Iran’s attack on Israel. As the President said, our commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran is ironclad.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) April 14, 2024
In a statement released later on Sunday, Blinken said, "The United States condemns Iran’s attack on Israel in the strongest terms. While we do not seek escalation, we will continue to support Israel’s defense, and as the President made clear, we will defend US personnel. I will be consulting with allies and partners in the region and around the world in the hours and days ahead."