Pentagon chief discusses de-escalation with Israeli counterpart

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed “opportunities for regional de-escalation” with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant during a phone call, the Pentagon said on Thursday, amid the conflict in the Middle East.

Austin “also reviewed steps Israel is taking and should continue to advance to improve the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, and prospects for a hostage release and ceasefire deal,” according to the readout.