US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin engaged in discussions with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant regarding efforts to uphold regional stability and the most recent developments in Gaza.

Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder released a statement indicating that Secretary of Defence Lloyd J Austin III conversed with Israeli Minister of Defence Yoav Gallant today. They discussed efforts to uphold regional stability, the recent developments in Gaza, and initiatives to expedite humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza.

The discussion between Secretary of Defence Lloyd J Austin III and Israeli Minister of Defence Yoav Gallant follows reports suggesting Israel conducted strikes in Iran the previous day.

However, the statement released by Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder did not address the Israeli strikes. The Biden administration has chosen not to comment on the matter.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre declined to provide any comments regarding questions concerning the reported strikes. During a press briefing, she acknowledged the significant interest in the overnight reports from the Middle East.

Jean-Pierre stated that although she anticipated questions on the matter, the administration currently has no comment on the reports. Additionally, she highlighted that the US has been engaging in consultations with its allies and partners, including those in the region, with the aim of mitigating further risks of escalation in the Middle East.

Karine Jean-Pierre refrained from commenting on the situation in the Middle East, stating she had nothing to share and would not speculate on reports. She reiterated the stance taken by Secretary Blinken and emphasized the need for caution regarding escalation.

Karine Jean-Pierre stated that the Biden administration has consistently expressed their desire to prevent escalation in the conflict. She referred to the joint statement by G7 foreign ministers, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, emphasising ongoing consultations with allies and partners to mitigate risks of further escalation.

ABC News reported earlier on Friday that Israel conducted airstrikes against Iran, citing a statement from a US official. According to Al Jazeera, Mehr news agency reported hearing sounds over the city of Isfahan and noted the downing of several miniature UAVs.

The official was unable to verify if sites in Syria and Iraq were also targeted. Shortly after local sources reported explosions in central Iran's Isfahan region, the report emerged. Subsequently, Iran activated air defence systems and suspended flight operations in several cities, including Tehran, Shiraz, and Isfahan. These restrictions were later lifted.

According to Syrian media reports, attacks targeted the Syrian Army's locations in southern governorates As-Suwayda and Daraa. Syrian military radar sites between Qarda and Izraa in Daraa were reportedly hit.

Additionally, residents of Mosul and Erbil in Iraq reported hearing fighter jets on Friday morning. This development follows Iran's barrage of over 300 missiles and drones against Israel on April 13, purportedly in retaliation for an alleged Israeli strike on its consulate in Syria on April 1.

Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian cautioned Israel against military actions targeting Iranian interests during discussions at the UNSC on Thursday. He announced Iran's conclusion of defensive and counteroffensive measures, urging the international community to prevent Israeli military operations against Iran.

Image source: ANI