A statement issued by the Pentagon on Sunday reported that Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has informed Israeli Security Minister Yoav Gallant of the decision to extend the deployment of two carrier strike groups in the Middle East.

"The Secretary reiterated Israel's right to defend itself and the United States' ironclad resolve to support Israel’s defense against threats from Iran and its regional partners and proxies. As part of that support, the Secretary has ordered the presence of two Carrier Strike Groups to remain in the region," the statement read.

Austin also voiced his alleged support for efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and to secure the release of captives, the statement noted.

.@SecDef spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today to discuss Israeli actions to defend against attacks by Lebanese Hizballah. See full readout at:https://t.co/gQ6a52L2Rf

— Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder (@PentagonPresSec) August 25, 2024

This comes after Hezbollah launched its retaliatory response against "Israel" over the martyrdom of Commander Fuoad Shokor. 

The Lebanese Resistance said in a statement that the attack targeted a strategic Israeli military site, adding that details about the specific target "will be disclosed at a later time."

Simultaneously, the Resistance struck multiple sites, military barracks, and Iron Dome installations belonging to the occupation forces in northern occupied Palestine with a heavy barrage of missiles.

Hezbollah further stated that these military operations will continue for some time, with a comprehensive statement to be issued afterward, detailing the course and objectives of the operations.

The Resistance concluded its statement by emphasizing that it remains at the highest level of readiness, prepared to respond decisively to any Israeli transgression or aggression, and warning against severe and harsh consequences, particularly if civilians are targeted.

Read more: Fact-check: Hezbollah's Secretary General debunks Israeli claims