DOD Statement on the Appointment of Benjamin "Benny" Gantz as Minister of Defense in Israel's 36th Government

 June 13, 2021

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Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby provided the following readout:

Defense Lloyd J. Austin III congratulates Benjamin “Benny” Gantz on his appointment as the Minister of Defense in Israel’s 36th government today.  Secretary Austin looks forward to continuing the important cooperation and dialogue with Minister Gantz to deepen the U.S.-Israel strategic partnership. The U.S. commitment to Israel's security remains ironclad.

Secretary Austin Travels to Brussels for the NATO Summit

 June 13, 2021

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Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III departs on a trip today to accompany President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. to the NATO Summit in Brussels June 14.

The President will affirm the United States' commitment to NATO, Transatlantic security, and our collective defense. NATO leaders will discuss how to orient the Alliance to future threats and opportunities, and ensure effective burden sharing.

On June 15, before returning to Washington D.C., Secretary Austin will meet with some NATO defense leaders to discuss how the Alliance can best adapt to face the regional and global security environment in an era of strategic competition.