Israeli Defense Minister Calls for Coalition Against Iran and Proxy Groups

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has called for the formation of an international coalition to protect Israel against potential threats from Iran and its allied proxy groups in the region. This call comes amidst heightened concerns over possible retaliatory attacks from these groups.

During a meeting with British Defense Minister John Haley on Friday, Gallant highlighted the readiness and capabilities of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to defend the nation on multiple fronts. Gallant emphasized the crucial need for a coalition to bolster Israel's security against Iran and its proxies. The discussion, as reported by the Jerusalem Post and Arab news agencies, underscored the importance of regional stability and the significant impact such a coalition could have.

Gallant expressed gratitude to the United Kingdom for its ongoing support of Israel's right to self-defense. He acknowledged the UK's assistance following the recent attacks on Israel in April and stressed the importance of continued cooperation. Gallant pointed to the IDF's recent successes, including the elimination of senior Hamas leaders and the dismantling of critical Hamas infrastructure, as key achievements in enhancing Israel's security.

In parallel, British officials, including Defense Minister John Haley and Foreign Secretary David Lammy, visited the region to discuss the evolving situation in West Asia. They engaged in talks with Israeli officials in the occupied territories, emphasizing the need for restraint and de-escalation to prevent further regional tensions.

Foreign Secretary Lammy underscored the urgency of achieving a ceasefire in Gaza and the importance of humanitarian efforts. "All parties must exercise restraint and avoid escalating regional tensions in the Middle East," Lammy stated on his social media platform. He further stressed the need for the immediate release of hostages, the protection of civilians, and the provision of additional aid to those affected by the conflict.

The visit by UK officials signifies a concerted effort to address the complex dynamics in the region and to support measures aimed at ensuring peace and stability. As tensions remain high, the call for an international coalition reflects Israel's strategic approach to fortifying its defense mechanisms and securing broader international support against perceived threats from Iran and affiliated groups.