General Pat Ryder, spokesman for the US Department of Defense (Pentagon), said – in an interview with the program “From Washington” – that his country is “working diligently” with the Israelis and other leaders in the region to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza.
He expressed his belief that reaching a diplomatic solution faster would serve all parties, and called on everyone to work to achieve this.
Ryder said, “Ultimately, what we want to see is a cessation of hostilities, and we want the hostages to be released immediately,” referring to Israeli detainees held by the Palestinian resistance in the Gaza Strip.
He added that his country wants to “create conditions for security and stability in Gaza, begin a return to normal life, and most importantly bring in humanitarian aid.”
Commenting on a question regarding the possible Israeli attack on Iran, the American military official stressed that his country “wants a ceasefire as soon as circumstances allow it, and wants to see the release of the hostages.”
He said that diplomatic means are the best way to achieve security and stability in the region.
On the other hand, the Pentagon spokesman confirmed that his country does not participate with Israel on the ground in fighting the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) or the Lebanese Hezbollah, and what it does is “support the defense of Israel” against the attacks launched by Iran on Israel.
He continued that the United States has been “committed to supporting the defense of Israel” since the attack of October 7, 2023, and that it has deployed forces in the region to protect the Americans there, protect its forces and support the defense of Israel, in addition to “deterring potential aggression from countries or parties.” Not international like Iran.”
In response to a question about American support for Israel, which contributed to the Israeli army not retreating, the Pentagon spokesman said, “If the United States abandons this partner or any partner around the world, this would send a message and encourage countries like Iran, which are looking to “destabilize and raise tensions.”
He explained that the American presence “has already prevented the outbreak of a broader regional conflict, and we will continue to focus on making sure that does not happen.”
He stressed that the United States has a long-term security relationship with Israel, and that US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, President Joe Biden and others say, “Our commitment to defending Israel is strict and this will not change in the future, no matter how long the conflict lasts.”
10/25/2024–|Last updated: 10/25/202411:50 AM (Mecca time)
