U.S. Defense Secretary Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Galant on August 16 local time to discuss the situation in the Middle East and the risk of escalating threats from Iran, Lebanon's Hezbollah and related organizations. Austin informed Galant that the United States continues to monitor the attack plans of Iran and related organizations and is ready to defend the region. In addition, they also discussed the progress of reaching a ceasefire agreement in Gaza and releasing detained persons.