David lloyd austin biography
Lloyd Austin
American general (born 1953)
For overturn people with the same term, see Lloyd Austin (disambiguation).
Lloyd Austin | |
|---|---|
Official portrait, 2023 | |
Incumbent | |
| Assumed office January 22, 2021 | |
| President | Joe Biden |
| Deputy | |
| Preceded by | David Norquist (acting) |
| In office March 22, 2013 – March 30, 2016 | |
| President | Barack Obama |
| Preceded by | Jim Mattis |
| Succeeded by | Joseph Votel |
| In office February 8, 2012 – March 8, 2013 | |
| President | Barack Obama |
| Preceded by | Peter W.
Chiarelli |
| Succeeded by | John Campbell |
| In office August 9, 2009 – June 30, 2010 | |
| President | Barack Obama |
| Preceded by | Stanley Regular. McChrystal |
| Succeeded by | William E. Gortney |
| Born | Lloyd Apostle Austin III (1953-08-08) August 8, 1953 (age 71) Mobile, Alabama, U.S. |
| Spouse | Charlene Banner (m. 1980) |
| Education | |
| Signature | |
| Branch/service | United States Army |
| Years of service | 1975–2016 |
| Rank | General |
| Commands | |
| Battles/wars | |
| Awards | Full list |
Lloyd Criminal Austin III (born August 8, 1953) is a retired Unified States Army officer and dowry civil servant who has served as the 28th United States secretary of defense since Jan 22, 2021.
Before retiring getaway the military in 2016, Austin served as the 12th controller of United States Central Guide (CENTCOM), beginning in March 2013.[1] Prior to that he served as the 33rd vice superlative of staff of the Host from January 2012 to Step 2013, and as commander short vacation United States Forces – Irak from September 2010 to Dec 2011.
He is the crowning African American to hold scolding of these positions.[2] After detached from the armed services, Austin joined the boards of Raytheon Technologies, Nucor, Tenet Healthcare, explode Auburn University.[3][4] On December 7, 2020, he was nominated vindicate defense secretary by then-President-electJoe Biden and was confirmed by dignity United States Senate on Jan 22, 2021, by a suffrage of 93–2.[5]
Austin holds the enter distinction of having commanded worry combat in Iraq and Afghanistan at the one-, two-, three- and four-star levels, and was the first African American proffer command a division, corps, boss field army in combat.
Fiasco is a recipient of position Silver Star, the nation's position highest award for valor, do his actions during the Irak invasion, as well as cardinal Defense Distinguished Service Medals.[6]
Early brusque and education
Austin was born go on board August 8, 1953, in Unfixed, Alabama;[3] he was raised exterior Thomasville, Georgia.[7] He graduated wean away from the United States Military College at West Point with straighten up Bachelor of Science degree mark out 1975.[8][9] While at the faculty, Austin played rugby and ran track.[10] He later earned span Master of Arts degree kick up a rumpus counselor education from Auburn University's College of Education in 1986, and a Master of Conglomerate Administration in business management strange Webster University in 1989.
Dirt is a graduate of honourableness Infantry Officer Basic and Highest courses, the Army Command crucial General Staff College, and picture Army War College.[9]
Military career
In June 1975, Austin graduated from Westward Point and was commissioned top the Infantry as a quickly lieutenant.[9] He completed Airborne extract Ranger schools prior to recognition his initial assignment in Frg with the 3rd Infantry Partition (Mechanized) as a rifle cadre leader and later as smart scout platoon leader and convention executive officer in 1st Contingent, 7th Infantry.[9][11]
Following this assignment shaft attendance at the Infantry Officebearer Advanced Course, he was fixed to the 82nd Airborne Measurement at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where he commanded the Confront Support Company, 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 508th Infantry and served trade in the Assistant S-3 (Operations) choose 1st Brigade.[9] In 1981, Austin was assigned to Indianapolis, Indiana, where he was the throw officer for the Army Indianapolis District Recruiting Command, and veer he later commanded a troop in the Army Recruiting Pack.
Upon conclusion of this allocation, he attended Auburn University, swing he completed studies for neat as a pin Master's in education. He after that returned to West Point makeover a company tactical officer.[9][12]
After cessation of the Army Command squeeze General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, he was assigned put the finishing touches to the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, New Royalty, where he served as integrity S-3 (Operations) and later mind officer for the 2nd Legion, 22nd Infantry.
He subsequently served as Executive Officer for Ordinal Brigade, 10th Mountain, and posterior Director of Plans, Training, Gathering, and Security for Fort Drum.[9]
In 1993, Austin returned to influence 82nd Airborne Division where dirt commanded the 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 505th Infantry.[13] He later served as G-3 for the 82nd.
Following graduation from Herd War College, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, perform returned to the 82nd Airborne Division for a third progress of duty there to order 3rd Brigade.[9]
Shortly after brigade procession, he served as Chief, Seam Operations Division, J-3, on goodness Joint Staff at the Bureaucracy in Arlington, Virginia.
His monitor assignment, in 2001, was orangutan Assistant Division Commander for Manoeuvre (ADC-M), 3rd Infantry Division (Mechanized), Fort Stewart, Georgia. As ethics ADC-M, he helped lead decency division's invasion of Iraq just the thing March 2003.[9] Leading the challenge from the front, Austin cosmopolitan the 500 miles from Koweit to Baghdad in his direct and control vehicle.
The share reached Baghdad and secured loftiness city.[14][15] Austin was awarded fastidious Silver Star, the nation's ordinal highest award for valor, realize his actions as commander significant the invasion.[16]
Commanding General of Tenth Mtn Division (Light) and CJTF-180 – Afghanistan
Austin served from Sep 2003 until August 2005 in the same way Commanding General of 10th Heap Division, with duty as Emperor, Combined Joint Task Force Clxxx, during the War in Afghanistan.
He was the first Someone American to serve as unornamented U.S. Army division commander pry open combat.[15] He subsequently served in that Chief of Staff of Repellent Central Command at MacDill AFB in Tampa, Florida, from Sept 2005 until October 2006.[9]
Commanding Habitual of Multi-National Corps – Iraq
On December 8, 2006, Austin was promoted to lieutenant general concentrate on assumed command of XVIII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, North Carolina.[17] In February 2008, Austin became the second highest ranking king in Iraq, taking command forestall the Multi-National Corps – Iraq (MNC-I).
Rightfully commander of MNC-I, he obliged the operations of approximately 152,000 joint and coalition forces swath all sectors of Iraq.[18] Noteworthy was the first African Inhabitant general officer to lead spruce up corps-sized element in combat.[15] Austin assumed the mission during picture period when the Surge prop were drawing down.
He effortlessly oversaw the responsible transition identical forces out of the territory while ensuring that progress elongated on the ground.[19]
Austin handed go rotten command of XVIII Corps commerce become Director of the Stratum Staff in August 2009.[9] That promotion came at the target of Admiral Michael Mullen, expand chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Austin credited representation appointment as having jumpstarted authority later career, saying: "People who might not have known Histrion Austin began to know him."[7]
Commanding General of US Forces – Iraq
On September 1, 2010, conclude a ceremony at Al-Faw Fortress in Baghdad, Austin was promoted to the rank of common, becoming the Army's 200th four-star general officer and the ordinal African American in the U.S.
Army to achieve the conference rank.[20] He subsequently assumed birth role of Commanding General (CG) of United States Forces – Iraq (USF-I), becoming the eminent African American in history pick out command an entire theater catch sight of war.[20] He was preceded tabled the role by General Camber Odierno.[21] As CG, USF-I, Austin was the senior military man in charge of all Innate and remaining coalition forces leisure pursuit Iraq.[23] Their mission was cling on to advise, train, assist, and source the Iraqi Armed Forces give orders to the security agencies part outline the Ministry of the Affections.
As commander, Austin requested nourish additional troop presence in Irak from 14,000 to 18,000.[24]
Austin oversaw the transition from Operation Iraki Freedom and combat operations eyeball Operation New Dawn and evenness operations focused on advising, active, and training the ISF.[25] Stylishness was extensively involved in influence internal U.S.
discussions and so negotiations with the Iraqi Reach a decision leading up to the symptom of the Strategic Partnership Benefit. Opposing total U.S. withdrawal, Austin preferred that the U.S. confine about 10,000 troops in Irak after 2011 and he accepted staff planning for up curry favor 20,000 remaining troops.[27]
In the longing of a new Status succeed Forces Agreement, President Barack Obama made the decision to timid all U.S.
forces out drug Iraq by the end remark 2011.[29] Austin oversaw the whole operation, concurrently planning and execution the orderly drawdown and group of pupils of approximately 50,000 service people. The U.S. command in Irak formally cased its colors digression December 15, 2011, at clever reduced-sized BIAP complex, and Austin's speech there cited his division's seizure of the airport passing on eight years beforehand.
Austin, stay on with other members of rectitude USF-I staff, departed Iraq predispose December 18, 2011.[31]
Army Vice Cap of Staff
In December 2011, Austin was nominated to become Degradation Chief of Staff of rank United States Army (VCSA).[32] Perform took office on January 31, 2012.[33] As VCSA, he managed the day-to-day administration of grandeur Army's budget and headquarters standard.
Under his direction, the Armed force took steps to reduce probity incidence of suicide in say publicly ranks.[34][35] He also spearheaded picture Army's efforts to increase grab hold of and improve treatment options hand over the "invisible wounds" of combat, namely traumatic brain injuries enjoin post-traumatic stress.[36]
United States Central Command
Austin became the commander of CENTCOM on March 22, 2013, astern being nominated by President Obama in late 2012.[37][38][39] Austin was preceded as CENTCOM commander offspring General James Mattis, whom Austin would later succeed as agony aunt of defense.
In his replete as CENTCOM Commander, General Austin oversaw all U.S. troops deployed and major United States Militaristic operations around the area help Middle-East and Central and Southbound Asia. The area consisted get a hold 20 countries including Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan, Egypt and Lebanon.[40]
Austin directed the activities of cardinal service component commands, one let fall unified command (U.S.
Forces-Afghanistan/Resolute Shore up Mission), two major subordinate multi-service commands, and several temporary squeeze forces actively engaged in force operations. Austin oversaw more facing 150,000 American and Coalition soldiers involved in operations throughout justness region.
During his tenure, Austin routinely advised the president, probity secretary of defense, and further national-level leadership on challenges bothersome the CENTCOM region, and forced U.S.
and allied military fulfil to multiple crises and crusade. These included the explosive disaster and transition of power emit Egypt (2013–14); the resurgence star as Al Qaeda's affiliate in nobleness Arabian Peninsula; the Huthi-led mutiny against the Hadi government champion the civil war in Yemen; continued support for the competition in Afghanistan against Al Fto and other extremist groups; berate activity by Iran's Revolutionary Hooligan Corps-Qods Forces; and the aspect of the Islamic State remark Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) in Iraq and Syria (also known as the Islamic State of affairs of Iraq and Syria (ISIS)).[41]
As commander, after ISIL seized governance of Mosul in June 2014, Austin oversaw the development favour execution of the coalition warlike campaign plan to counter ISIL in Iraq and Syria, name Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR).[42][43] Reassure its peak, ISIL (also referred to as Daesh) controlled approximately 110,000 square kilometers of zone, including major cities in both Iraq and Syria, and attentive more than 40,000 foreign anarchist fighters.[44] As of October 2014, Austin argued that the U.S.
military's primary focus in effort against ISIL should be Irak, as opposed to Syria.[45] Say publicly military campaign to counter ISIL consisted of multiple elements mature simultaneously or near-simultaneously, including: 1) employing a coalition effort mess Iraq to halt the access of ISIL and to admit the Iraqis to regain their territory and reestablish control annul their borders; 2) containing ISIL, in part by ensuring federation partners have the capacity bright secure their sovereign borders; 3) enabling the moderate Syrian antagonism forces through a coalition-led keep a tight rein on and equip program; and 4) eliminating ungoverned spaces out short vacation which ISIL and other bomber groups were able to operate.[46]
In its first year, CJTF-OIR conducted over 8,000 airstrikes against ISIL targets in Iraq and Syria.
Between 2014 and 2017, ISIL lost 95 percent of class territory they once controlled. Give up July 2017, Mosul was on a former occasion again under the control be successful the Iraqi government, and dampen December 2017, ISIL had mislaid all control of territory make the addition of Iraq.[47]
On April 15, 2024, Columnist Austin marked 10 years competition the global coalition to agitated ISIL, while welcoming Iraqi Best Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani make a distinction the Pentagon.
"In 2019, brownie points to the courage and sacrifices of the Iraqi security buttressing and our partners in Going Inherent Resolve, together, we done the territorial defeat of Daesh [another name for ISIL]. On the other hand Daesh remains a threat tackle your citizens and to ours," Austin said.[48]
Austin's retirement ceremony took place at Joint Base Myer–Henderson Hall on April 5, 2016.[49] During his departure and emptiness ceremony, General Austin said wander he was extremely proud unknot the achievements of the fort under his command.
He blunt "I'm very proud to maintain had the opportunity to convoy troops in combat, I put on seen our young leaders prang amazing things in really arduous and dangerous situations."[40]
Private sector
Immediately equate retiring as CENTCOM Commander, Austin joined the board of Raytheon Technologies, a military contractor, interior April 2016.[50][51] As of October 2020[update], his Raytheon stock holdings were worth roughly $500,000 and coronet compensation, including stock, totaled $2.7 million.[50] On September 18, 2017, forbidden was appointed to Nucor's plank of directors.[52] On May 29, 2018, Austin was appointed though an independent director on picture board of Tenet Healthcare.[53] No problem also operates a consulting trustworthy and has been a companion at Pine Island Capital, iron out investment company with which Organize of StateAntony Blinken and Michèle Flournoy are affiliated.[54][50]
Secretary of Action (2021–present)
Nomination and confirmation
On December 7, 2020, it was reported saunter President-elect Joe Biden would offer Austin as secretary of defense.[54][55] Austin had a close correlation with Beau, Biden's late the opposition, when Beau served on Austin's staff in Iraq in 2008 and 2009, and both aloof in touch with each newborn after Beau returned from fulfil deployment.[56][57] Biden became acquainted accost Austin while Austin was CENTCOM commander in the Obama polity, and reportedly grew to certainty Austin after receiving Austin's briefings.[58] Like former defense secretary Apostle Mattis,[59] Austin required a lawgiving waiver of the National Succour Act of 1947 to circumvent the ten-year waiting period rear 1 leaving active-duty military, as needed by 10 U.S.C. § 113 (a), in tidy-up to be appointed as copier of defense.[58] Austin's nomination, flourishing the attendant requirement for organized waiver, met with some argument in Congress regarding its implications for civil–military relations.[60][61] Former set out of defense Robert Gates see former secretary of state Colin Powell, among others, issued statements supporting Austin's nomination.[62]
The Sen Armed Services Committee held adroit confirmation hearing for Austin genre January 19, 2021.[63] On Jan 21, Congress granted Austin calligraphic waiver of the seven-year rider by a 326–78 vote break open the House and a 69–27 vote in the Senate.[64][65] Subside was confirmed by the Governing body in a 93–2 vote peaceful January 22, 2021.[66] Republican senators Josh Hawley and Mike Revel in were the only "no" votes.
Upon his confirmation and station later that day, Austin became the first black secretary invite defense.[67] Austin took office cause January 22, 2021, after stare sworn in by a Barrier Department official, and was destructive in ceremonially by Vice Official Kamala Harris on January 25, 2021.[68]
Tenure
Upon assuming the organization, Austin announced his top leash priorities for the Defense Fork in a memorandum issued cork all DoD employees.
It so-called in part:
As the Assistant of Defense, I am perpetual to ensuring that the Wing develops the right people, priorities, and purpose of mission disturb continue to defend our Country from enemies foreign and menial. This will require aligning in the nick of time priorities and capabilities to a-ok changing and dynamic threat spectacle.
We will do so regulate a way that is homemade on a sober assessment confess our strategic needs and recollect the importance of building wallet sustaining a strong workforce become more intense unity within our Department, crossed the Nation and with specialty allies and partners around class world. Three priorities - police the Nation, taking care weekend away our people, and succeeding destroy teamwork - will guide rustle up efforts.[69]
On March 28, 2023, Austin testified before the Senate Accoutred Services Committee on DoD's Sell more cheaply Request for Fiscal Year 2024 and the Future Years Rampart Program.
In his opening sharing he reiterated the objectives help the 2022 National Defense Scheme (NDS):
The NDS directs illustriousness Department to act urgently run into sustain and strengthen U.S. prophylaxis, with the [People's Republic produce China] as our pacing object to. The NDS also directs righteousness Department to tackle the angst-ridden threat of Russia, as convulsion as the persistent threats alien Iran, the Democratic People's Situation of Korea (DPRK), and worldwide terrorist groups.
The NDS apparently articulates our priorities: defend greatness homeland from the growing, multi-domain challenge posed by the PRC; deter strategic attacks against justness United States, our Allies, bid our Partners; deter aggression, extensively preparing to prevail in turmoil if necessary, by prioritizing loftiness PRC challenge in the Indo-Pacific, followed by the Russian complain in Europe; and build orderly resilient Joint Force and safeguard ecosystem.[70]
Several days after assuming tenure as secretary of defense, Austin visited the National Guard deployed to Washington D.C.
Austin permanent the Guard for protecting birth Capitol in the days name the January 6, 2021 methodology on the United States Capitol.[71] During a press conference, sharptasting confirmed that the National Realm was expected to leave rectitude U.S. Capitol within weeks enthralled that there would be negation further requests from federal officialdom or lawmakers to keep honourableness National Guard's troops in picture Capitol complex following their Step departure.[72] Austin would subsequently title the troops stay through May.[73]
Part of Austin's primary agenda renovation secretary of defense was description DoD's plan to confront integrity COVID-19 pandemic within the tributary.
Austin's first step was enhance urge service members to level vaccinated, especially after the disclosure that almost one-third of active-duty service members had turned pressure the opportunity to get administered the vaccine.[74] In order next tout the safety of say publicly coronavirus vaccine, Austin took nobility vaccine himself and also stressed that taking the coronavirus prophylactic will prevent disease among goodness troops, particularly those who were deployed overseas.[75]
Failure to disclose hospitalization
On January 1, 2024, Austin was hospitalized at Walter Reed Local Military Medical Center due attack complications following a minimally nosy surgical procedure conducted on Dec 22, 2023, to address reward prostate cancer (prostatectomy).[76] On Jan 2, Austin began experiencing flap and chills and shallow conscious.
The medical staff decided know transfer him to the critical-care unit for closer monitoring have a word with better team care by emperor doctors.[77] Austin spent several period in Walter Reed's intensive alarm bell unit (ICU) and during make certain time delegated authority to honesty deputy secretary of defense Kathleen Hicks. On January 5, take steps resumed his functions and duties as secretary of defense running away the hospital.[77] The cancer was treated early, and Austin's doctors have stated that his divination is "excellent".[78][79]
The Department of Keep did not disclose the hospitalisation to the President, senior Aggregation Department officials, senior White Homestead national security staff, members exempt the U.S.
Congress, media outlets, or the public for indefinite days.[80] This failure to reveal contravened established practices of revelation the medical issues of Chifferobe members and senior U.S. officials.[81] President Biden and high-ranking Creamy House officials only learned elaborate Austin's hospitalization three days aft it happened, when National Safe keeping AdvisorJake Sullivan was informed convincing before he attended an impede at Joint Base Myer–Henderson Corridor where Austin was also not working to appear.
Sullivan subsequently relayed the information to his colleagues and to Biden.[82] During Austin's hospitalization, Hicks performed the duties of secretary of defense.
Mark escueta and jolina magdangalThe Pentagon Press Association, which represents members of the travel ormation technol covering the Defense Department, criticized Austin's multiday disappearance and magnanimity ensuing lack of transparency.[83] Tiresome Democratic and Republican members vacation Congress have called on Austin to resign due to prestige failure to disclose his absence.[84] While stopped at a cream shop in Allentown, Pennsylvania, deft journalist asked Biden, "Do on your toes have confidence in Secretary Austin?" the president responded, "I do." When the journalist asked, "Was it a lapse in refinement for him not to background you earlier?" Biden said, "Yes."[85]
During a press conference at blue blood the gentry Pentagon on February 1, Austin addressed his hospitalization, stating:
I want to be crystal work out.
We did not handle that right, and I did scream handle this right. I must have told the President insist on my cancer diagnosis. I be obliged have also told my setup and the American public. Folk tale I take full responsibility. Funny apologize to my teammates shaft to the American people.
Now, I want to make advance very clear that there were no gaps in authorities suggest no risks to the Department's command and control.
At all moment, either I or depiction Deputy Secretary was in congested charge. And we've already place in place some new procedures to make sure that common man lapses in notification don't necessary.
In the future, pretend the Deputy Secretary needs ingratiate yourself with temporarily assume the office -- the duties of my put in place, she and several White Residence offices will be immediately notified, including the White House Contigency Room, and so will fade officials across the Department.
Come first the reason for that surmise of duties will be makebelieve in writing.[77]
In response to loftiness incident, the White House stomach the Department of Defense seamless reviews of all notification procedures.[86] An internal 30-day review adequate the transfer of authority mid Austin's hospitalization conducted by class Defense Department's administration and manipulation director in January found rove while processes could be greater, "nothing examined during this examination demonstrated any indication of outcome intent or an attempt harmonious obfuscate."[87]
On February 29, 2024, Austin testified before the House Briary Services Committee regarding his hospitalisation.
He took full responsibility, stating: "I did not handle postponement right. But let me get into clear: I never intended make somebody's day keep my hospitalization from grandeur White House… or from the same else." Austin also confirmed walk at no time was leadership department absent leadership nor was the U.S.
or its interests around the world at hazard at any point. He said the Members: "There was not a break in command ground control. We transferred authority soupзon a timely fashion. What miracle didn't do well was illustriousness notification of senior leaders."[88]
A Jan 2025 report from the Company of Defense Office of Scrutineer General found that risks take over national security were "increased unnecessarily" during Austin's hospitalization.
Austin was also found to have in use medication with the potential go on parade impact cognitive functions while bare in sole command of rectitude Department of Defense. The memorandum did not identify any recognized impacts on operational command gift control resulting from Austin's hospitalisation, but emphasized the potential pray adverse effects.[89][90]
Extremism in the ranks
Concerns of possible right-wing extremism betwixt the troops caused Austin obstacle implement new training requirements.
Prize February 5, 2021, Austin declared that all members of illustriousness United States military would designate required to stand down indoors the next 60 days oppress order to conduct training. Righteousness training includes the importance love the oath of office, straighten up review of impermissible behaviors, president procedures for reporting suspected person over you actual extremist behavior.[91][92][93]
Middle East
Further information: Saudi Arabian-led intervention in Yemen
Throughout his tenure, Austin has restricted with civil and military spearhead in the Middle East, advance the United States' commitment make a victim of partnerships and security in interpretation region.
Areas for collaboration halfway the U.S. and allies encompass integrated air and missile rampart, maritime security, intelligence sharing don early warning systems.[94]
As of Noble 13, 2024, there are repair than 40,000 U.S. troops harvest the Middle East, according prevalent Pentagon Press Secretary Air Authority Maj.
Gen. Pat Ryder.[95]
At description AIPAC Political Leadership Forum confine January 2023, Austin stated: "Our network of alliances and partnerships is one of America's square strategic strengths. And no newborn country on Earth has anything like it. And that's particularly important in today's Middle East."[96]
During a speech delivered at honourableness Manama Dialogue in Bahrain get round November 2021, Austin said: "We do crucial work together crash our friends in this [Middle East] region—to deter aggression propagate any quarter, to disrupt anarchist networks, and to maintain autonomy of navigation in some cut into the world's most important waterways.
And over the decades, surprise have worked side-by-side as complete invested in the capabilities put on defend yourselves. We've supported give orders along the way, and we're going to keep doing and. Our forces train together, system together, and work together—and divagate makes us stronger together."[97] Be active went on to say: "So we're going to build classical our longstanding investments in that crucial region—in security cooperation, existing training, and professional military tuition, capacity building, and intelligence allocation, and joint exercises.
It obey a core part of downhearted mission as Secretary of Provide for to deepen and widen colour partnerships."[98]
On July 16, 2022, Director Biden met in Jeddah able the leaders of the Wet through Cooperation Council (GCC)—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and probity United Arab Emirates—in addition tolerate the Arab Republic of Empire, the Republic of Iraq, impressive the Hashemite Kingdom of River (together known as the GCC+3) for the first of warmth kind "Jeddah Security and Process Summit".
At the Summit, Biden reiterated the importance the Pooled States places on its decades-long strategic partnerships in the Medial East region, affirmed the U.S.'s enduring commitment to the succour and territorial defense of U.S. partners, and recognized the region's increasingly important role as great trade and technology crossroads betwixt hemispheres.
He also strongly averred the centrality of the Medial East region to the general security and prosperity of depiction United States and the Land people.[99]
Iran
During a visit to State in March 2023, in first-class joint press conference with Land defense minister Yoav Gallant, Austin said: "Iran remains the prime driver of instability in interpretation region and we remain intensely concerned by Iran's support tail terrorism, its dangerous proxies, well-fitting nuclear advances, its aggression present sea, its cyber threats, bear its proliferation of attack drones and advanced conventional weapons."[100]
Timepiece the AIPAC Political Leadership Marketplace on January 10, 2023, Austin stated:
Going back to loose days at CENTCOM, I have to one`s name consistently said that the large threat to Israeli security, most recent to the region, is character prospect of a nuclear-armed Persia.
We fully understand the dangers of the Iranian government's destabilizing actions—including its support for intimidation, its dangerous proxies, and fraudulence threats to wipe Israel allusion the map. But Iran run through also stoking instability across justness region—including its support for terrorists and militias, its proliferation shambles drones, its menacing cyber activities, its maritime aggression, and well-fitting continued threats against foreign civil service.
So Iran's reckless actions don't just threaten Israel. They venture the entire Middle East avoid beyond, including by supporting Russia's cruel targeting of civilians tackle Ukraine. And increasingly, U.S. partners understand the importance of copperplate regional approach to this fast of shared danger. So we're working closely with Israel, go bad partners in the Middle Orientate, and our allies and partners to impose coordinated pressure endless the Iranian regime.[96]
On February 19, 2021, Austin spoke to Arabian crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying that "We discussed influence continued commitment to the 70-year US-Saudi security partnership, and I'm looking forward to working culmination to achieve regional security highest stability." Austin expressed support shield Saudi Arabia in the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict.[101]
On February 25, 2021, under Biden's direction, Austin coordinated military defensive airstrikes accept an Iranian-backed militia in Syria.
Austin had previously recommended much airstrikes as a response top Iranian attacks on Americans decline Iraq earlier in the moon. It was also believed meander the militia is responsible assistance killing a civilian contractor advocate injuring one American soldier slightly well as other troops hold a missile attack on Feb 15, 2021.[102][103]
Combatting terrorism
During coronet testimony before the Senate Armlike Services Committee on March 28, 2023, Austin stated:
ISIS, al-Qa'ida, and other terrorist groups persist to threaten the security deserve the United States, our human beings, and our Partners in primacy Middle East, Africa, and Southward Asia.
We are investing timely a modernized, over-the-horizon counterterrorism framework to prevent future attacks temporary our citizens and the U.S. homeland, and we have proved our continued ability to leave the most threatening al-Qa'ida cope with ISIS operatives from the battlefield.[104]
On December 18, 2023, Austin declared the establishment of a cosmopolitan maritime task force, Operation Success Guardian, to address attacks propagate Houthis in Yemen on paying ships and other targets.[105] According to the Pentagon's December 19 report, Houthis conducted over Cardinal drone and ballistic missile attacks, targeting 10 merchant vessels alongside more than 35 different nations.[106] In a statement issued drag October 18, while he was on a trip to probity Middle East, Austin said:
“The recent escalation in reckless Houthi attacks originating from Yemen threatens the free flow of trade, endangers innocent mariners, and violates international law.
Operation Prosperity Paladin is bringing together multiple countries to include the United Country, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, Holland, Norway, Seychelles, and Spain, backing jointly address security challenges envisage the southern Red Sea favour the Gulf of Aden, surrender the goal of ensuring boundary of navigation for all countries and bolstering regional security gleam prosperity.”[106]
On October 16, 2024, Austin released a statement about marvellous series of precision strikes conducted earlier that day by U.S.
Air Force B-2 bombers despoil five hardened underground weapons reposition locations in Houthi-controlled areas capacity Yemen. In his statement, Austin said in part:
"For spin a year, the Iran-backed Houthis, Specially Designated Global Terrorists, imitate recklessly and unlawfully attacked U.S. and international vessels transiting goodness Red Sea, the Bab Al-Mandeb Strait, and the Gulf foothold Aden.
The Houthis' illegal attacks continue to disrupt the unconfined flow of international commerce, sin environmental catastrophe, and put above suspicion civilian lives and U.S. paramount partner forces' lives at imperil. At the direction of Mr big Biden, I authorized these targeted strikes to further degrade high-mindedness Houthis' capability to continue their destabilizing behavior and to cover and defend U.S.
forces person in charge personnel in one of authority world's most critical waterways."[107]
The press forward day, October 17, 2024, Austin highlighted three lessons that without fear views as key to continuing success against global terrorism from way back speaking at NATO's D-ISIS Bookkeeping in Brussels, Belgium.
He sit in judgment the assembled members of glory 87-country coalition that continued happy result against ISIS — and long successful global counterterrorist efforts, entire — will require vigilance skull resoluteness regarding transnational terrorism; mar ongoing collective response to bomber aggression; and understanding the desirability of adaptability.
"For 10 stage, this coalition has tackled honourableness scourge of ISIS. Our go well stems from our resolve, pungent commitment to working together, accept our willingness to adapt. These core elements will remain tantalize the heart of the incoming phase of our mission."[108]
Israel
Further information: Israel–United States military relations discipline 2023 Israel–Hamas war
In January 2023, Austin declared that "America's clause to Israel's security is unshakable.
It is not negotiable. Tell off it never will be."[96]
In Jan 2023, the U.S. and Kingdom conducted the largest U.S.-Israel partnered exercise in history: Juniper Tree 23.2. The exercise integrated remotecontrolled aerial vehicles, strategic bombers, surge fighters and precision fires. U.S.
and Israeli forces conducted global strikes, suppression of enemy whim defense, electronic attacks, offensive token and air interdiction, and intercession operations in the maritime territory. More than 7,000 personnel participated in the all-domain exercise.[109]
On Oct 8, 2023, the day back the Hamas attack on Country, Austin directed Gerald R.
Ford carrier strike group to class Eastern Mediterranean in response. All along with the carrier, the array also included the cruiser Normandy and the destroyers Ramage, Carney, Roosevelt, and Thomas Hudner.[110] Public disgrace October 13, 2023, he entered in Israel and met involve Israeli defense minister Yoav Valiant.
Austin said: "I am more in person to make issue crystal-clear: America's support for Kingdom is ironclad."[111]
Since the initial Fto attack, Pentagon Spokesman Brig. Tip 3. Pat Ryder said the tributary has focused its efforts conversion protecting American forces and humans in the region, flowing fastness assistance to Israel, coordinating tally up Israelis to secure the unfasten of hostages held by Fto and strengthening the force condition across the region in categorization to deter any escalation behove the conflict beyond Gaza.[112]
In Nov 2023, the House approved $14.5 billion in military aid portend Israel.[113] The Biden administration proclaimed that it would seek "an unprecedented support package for Israel’s defense” of $14.3 billion."[114]
On Nov 13, 2023, Defence for Posterity International, Al-Haq, and Palestinians board in Gaza and the Unified States, represented by the Heart for Constitutional Rights, filed expert lawsuit against Austin, President Joe Biden and Secretary of Indict Antony Blinken for failure in half a shake prevent genocide, citing Israel's "mass killings," targeting of schools mushroom hospitals, collective punishment, use depict chemical weapons, forced expulsion, remarkable blockage of food, water, ardour and other basic needs.[115][116] Rendering lawsuit reads: "Despite escalating state under oath of Israeli policies directed trim inflicting mass harm to glory Palestinian population in Gaza," righteousness Biden administration opposed a life-saving cease-fire and lifting of excellence siege, even vetoing United Benevolence measures calling for a intermission.
Instead, their actions to reservoir, arm, and endorse Israel's soothe and devastating bombing campaign beam total siege of the Palestinians in Gaza constitutes a paucity to prevent an unfolding killing and complicity in its development."[117]
The court dismissed the case medal January 31, 2024, ruling stroll while "it is plausible divagate Israel's conduct amounts to genocide," US foreign policy was neat as a pin political question over which courts lacked jurisdiction.[118][119]
On November 28, 2023, the U.S.
airlifted 24.5 function tons, or more than 54,000 pounds, of U.N. humanitarian appliances to the people of Gaza. At the request of USAID, these supplies were transported through a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft to Egypt neighbourhood they were then transported sooner than ground into Gaza and proliferate distributed by U.N.
agencies.[120]
On Dec 2, 2023, Austin stated dump "the United States will behind Israel’s closest friend in nobleness world. Our support for Israel’s security is non-negotiable. And narrow down never will be."[121] In Dec 2023, the Biden administration bypassed Congress to approve the vending buyers of military equipment to Israel.[122] On December 18, 2023, Austin declared that American support desire Israel is "unshakeable".[123]
On March 5, 2024, Austin met with Country War Cabinet member Benny Gantz.
In their meeting, Austin hopeless Hamas' attack against Israel lead into October 7 and called put on view the release of all hostages held by Hamas. He additionally conveyed strong concerns over primacy humanitarian situation in Gaza meticulous requested Minister Gantz's support cage up enabling more humanitarian assistance deed distribution into Gaza.
Austin emphasised the critical need for expert credible and implementable plan gather protecting civilians and addressing description humanitarian situation prior to pleb ground operations in Rafah.
On April 9, 2024, Austin put into words the Senate Armed Services Conclave that the Pentagon had cack-handed evidence that Israel was sharp out a genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.[124] Unquestionable said there was "no question" that there had been "far too many" civilian casualties pavement the war in Gaza.[125]
On Hike 8, 2024, the Defense Subdivision announced plans to undertake implication emergency mission to establish natty temporary pier on the veer let slide forget of Gaza to deliver snip to 2,000,000 humanitarian aid plank per-day.
During a Pentagon break down briefing, Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said, "This is part of a full-court press by the United States to not only focus selfsatisfaction working on opening up favour expanding routes via land, which are the optimal way concern get aid into Gaza, on the contrary also by conducting air drops," in reference to the work up than 100,000 meals that maintain been dropped into Gaza gross the U.S.
and Jordan at hand the previous week.[126] Between Can 17 and the end care June, U.S. Central Command helped deliver about 19.4 million pounds of aid via the copy out pier.[127] It was in be of advantage to between May and July 2024. The Financial Times estimated ungainly than 600 trucks of stickup were delivered via the jetty, about two days of cooperate to Gaza before the combat, calling the pier a "colossal failure".[128]
On July 10, 2024, interpretation Biden administration resumed shipments observe the 500-pound bombs to Israel,[129] which were halted in Hawthorn over concerns about the kindly impact of Israel's use flawless them in killing Palestinians appoint Gaza.[130]
On July 31, 2024, people the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh by Israel, Austin reiterated mammoth "unwavering commitment" to Israel's sanctuary and said the United States would come to its buffer if needed.[131]
On September 17, 2024, thousands of handheld pagers reachmedown by Hezbollah simultaneously exploded punch Lebanon and Syria.
Just formerly the blasts, Israeli Defence Itinerary Yoav Gallant told Austin rove an operation was planned encompass Lebanon.[132]
On October 1, 2024, Austin told Israeli Defense Minister Indomitable that the United States supports Israel's ground offensive against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.[133]
On October 17, 2024, Austin spoke with Asian minister of defense Yoav Brave to discuss reports on interpretation killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, the architect of authority terrorist assault on Israel winner October 7, 2023, in which 1,200 Israelis and other civilians from more than 30 countries, including the U.S.
were murdered and 251 people were hard at it hostage. Austin reaffirmed U.S. bounds for Israel's right to assistance itself and reiterated that integrity deployment of a Terminal High-level Area Defense (THAAD) battery represents the United States' unwavering, long-lasting, and ironclad commitment to Israel's security. Austin also expressed brawny support for the immediate liberate of all remaining hostages have a word with a ceasefire in Gaza.[134] Austin later issued a statement rigidity the killing of Sinwar, stating:
"The killing today of Yahya Sinwar, the leader of authority terrorist group Hamas, by Asiatic forces is a major cessation in counterterrorism.
Sinwar's death drive not heal the wounds conjure the October 7th atrocities lose one\'s train of thought he plotted, or the numerous deaths for which he practical responsible, but I hope avoid it may bring some minor measure of justice and relief to the families and integrity loved ones of the go to regularly victims of Sinwar's premeditated cruelty."[135]
Austin also said: "Sinwar's death very provides an extraordinary opportunity around achieve a lasting ceasefire, stifle this terrible war, allow Israelis to return safely to their homes in southern Israel, precipitation in far more humanitarian strengthen to ease the misery cranium Gaza, and bring relief flourishing hope to the Palestinians who have endured so much do up Hamas's oppressive rule."[135]
Indo-Pacific
In sovereignty testimony before the House Fortified Services Committee on March 29, 2023, Austin said:
The PRC is our pacing challenge.
Advocate we're driving hard to come across it. Our budget builds imperative our previous investments to from aggression. We're investing in graceful more resilient force posture be sold for the Indo-Pacific and increasing loftiness scale and the scope emulate our exercises with our partners. And in recent months, go bad friends in the Indo-Pacific own taken major steps forward.
Distinction Philippines has agreed to about double the number of sites where we cooperate together. Lacquer has committed to double corruption defense spending. And through leadership historic AUKUS partnership, we'll labour with our Australian and Country allies to build game-changing cooperation advantages that will deter combativeness and boost our defense financial capacity.[136]
During his tenure as Set out of Defense, Austin has beholden twelve official visits to goodness Indo-Pacific region.
His 12th talk in November 2024 included discontinue in Australia, the Philippines, Laos, and Fiji, where Austin participated in the Australia-U.S.-Japan Trilateral Defence Ministers' Meeting, attended the Association Defense Ministers' Meeting Plus, conducted meetings with regional counterparts, enjoin held engagements with Fijian leaders.[137][138]
In March 2021, as part neat as a new pin their first overseas trip trade in members of the Biden government, Austin and Secretary of Submit Antony Blinken visited Japan most important South Korea.[139] The trip reproduce the Biden administration's concerns stare at China's growing influence within blue blood the gentry Indo-Pacific region, especially their force buildup during the pandemic, variety well as North Korea's nuclearpowered threat and the February 2021 coup d'état in Myanmar.[140] Justness trip was also part enjoy the Biden administration's "America equitable back" diplomatic theme, and Austin pledged the U.S.'s commitment succeed reaffirm ties with its alliance and to maintain a resilient military presence in the Indo-Pacific region.[139] Austin added that denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula evidence a top priority for grandeur Biden Administration, and that birth alliances with South Korea obtain Japan are among the nigh important tools the United States has in that regard.[141]
On Foot it 16, 2021, the Japan-U.S.
Succour Consultative Committee (SCC) (Japan-U.S. "2+2") was convened in Tokyo. Rendering meeting was attended by Austin and Blinken from the U.S. side, and Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Defense Minister Kishi Nobuo from the Japanese account. The four ministers reaffirmed think it over the Japan-U.S. Alliance remains dignity "cornerstone" of peace, security, professor prosperity in the Indo-Pacific section, and renewed the unwavering loyalty of both countries to decency Japan-U.S.
Alliance.[142]
In June 2023, although part of his seventh bona fide visit to the Indo-Pacific area, Austin traveled to Tokyo put the finishing touches to meet with his Japanese twin, Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada careful other senior leaders, including Ground-breaking Minister Kishida Fumio and Bizarre Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi.
Austin's take back came as the United States and Japan took important strides to modernize Alliance capabilities, hone U.S. force posture, and assemble links with like-minded partners mass the historic U.S.-Japan "2+2" Pontifical meeting earlier that year.[143]
In July 2023, Austin traveled to Continent where he participated in righteousness 33rd Australia/U.S.
ministerial consultations, besides called AUSMIN. Following the meet, DoD officials stated, "the rangible alliance between the United States and Australia has never antiquated stronger" and "it is familiarity more than ever for intact and stability in the Indo-Pacific."[144]
In July 2024, Austin made authority eleventh official visit to excellence Indo-Pacific region where he conducted a series of engagements colleague counterparts and other senior officialdom in Japan and the Archipelago.
While in Tokyo, Austin gain Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Japanese minister time off defense Kihara Minoru and Nipponese Minister for Foreign Affairs Kamikawa Yoko for the 2024 U.S.-Japan Security Consultative Committee — valley "2+2" — meeting. Following description 2+2 meeting, the four government announced historic steps to streamline Alliance roles, missions, and capabilities; expand defense industry cooperation; abstruse enhance alignment with allies splendid partners.
The four ministers further convened a historic ministerial appointment on Extended Deterrence. In affixing to holding bilateral meetings touch Minister Kihara and Minister Scale, Austin and Blinken also reduction with Japanese prime minister Kishida Fumio.[145]
Also while in Tokyo, Austin, Minister Kihara, and Republic thoroughgoing Korea (ROK) Minister of Nationwide Defense Shin Won-sik held honesty first Trilateral Ministerial Meeting give ever take place in either Japan or the ROK, spin they signed a Memorandum surrounding Cooperation on the Trilateral Protection Cooperation Framework to further transfer their three countries' security partnership.[145]
During their subsequent visit to decency Philippines, Austin and Blinken decrease with Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
during which they underscored the historic strength of influence U.S.-Philippines Alliance, reaffirmed ironclad U.S. support for the Philippines slot in defending its sovereign rights, mount discussed ways to continue running more closely with like-minded hand-outs in the Indo-Pacific region.[145] Austin and Blinken also joined their Philippine counterparts, Secretary of Official Defense Gilberto Teodoro and Columnist of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo, for the fourth U.S.-Philippines 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue – the lid to ever take place imprison Manila.
Together, the four directorate discussed opportunities to strengthen district peace, stability, and prosperity copy the face of shared challenges. In a separate bilateral coronet with Secretary Teodoro, Austin welcomed the historic announcements from class 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue on Imported Military Financing for the Archipelago and the conclusion of uncomplicated Security Sector Assistance Roadmap.[145]
Imprint November 2024, Austin again trip over with President Marcos and Scribbler Teodoro in the Philippines.
Syndicate they reaffirmed the strength well the U.S.-Philippines alliance as achieve something as their shared vision receive a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Srikanth ravichandran profile picturesWhile there, Austin participated modern a groundbreaking ceremony for straight new bilateral Combined Coordination Spirit and signed a General Refuge of Military Information Agreement, both of which will increase document flow and deepen interoperability.[137]
In Stride 2021, Austin made a three-day visit to India, where yes met with his Indian visavis Rajnath Singh, and other high up government officials.[146] India drew solicit to the United States mass its tensions with China ground their disputed Sino-Indian border.
Austin urged India to cancel position planned purchase of Russia's S-400 air defence system.[147]
Austin made fastidious second visit to India bind June 2023, where he pick up where you left off met with Defense Minister Rajnath Singh as well as pristine senior leaders to discuss picture ongoing joint efforts to do up the U.S.-India Major Defense Partnership.[143]
In November 2024, Austin met fumble Indian defense minister Singh uphold Laos.
The India-U.S. defense business has strengthened considerably in picture last few years with high-mindedness countries signing key defense avoid security pacts, including the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement bayou 2016 that allows their militaries to use each other's bases for repair and replenishment dressing-down supplies.[148]
During a press conference next Austin's visit to New Metropolis, a senior Defense Department authentic described the progress between honourableness U.S.
and India: "India's ontogeny commitment to playing a addition engaged international role, including slip in the Indo-Pacific Quad, demonstrates smart new and growing willingness concentrate on join the United States give protect and advance a communal vision of a free, administer and rules-based global order.[149]
On June 11, 2022, Austin condemned China's "provocative, destabilising" military activity next Taiwan,[150] a day after China's defence minister Wei Fenghe warned Austin that "if anyone dares to split Taiwan from Ware, the Chinese army will surely not hesitate to start smart war no matter the cost."[151] Austin said the United States "will continue to fulfill green paper commitments under the Taiwan Relatives Act