Washington, August 9 (RHC)-- U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin placed a call to his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant and had a nice, friendly conversation, in which he reaffirmed Washington's “ironclad support” for Israel as tensions ramp up in the region.

“The U.S. F-22 Raptors that arrived in the region today represent one of many efforts to deter aggression, defend Israel and protect U.S. forces in the region,” Austin said.

Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin also “stressed the importance of concluding a ceasefire deal in Gaza that releases” captives held in the Palestinian enclave.  Observers point out that the military officer never mentioned the endless slaughter that is being carried out against men, women and especially children in Gaza.  For that, Tel Aviv has the USA's full support.

The U.S. "defense support" for Isreal -- the F-22 -- is considered one of the highest technological weapon and most lethal air offensive system on Earth.  

A promotional description of the fighter-jet from the manufacturer, Lockheed Martin / BAE Systems: 

"The F-22 Raptor projects fifth-generation air dominance with a unique combination of long-range situational awareness, low observability, speed, agility, and lethality. The high-performance AN/ALR-94 system protects the Raptor with integrated radar warning, targeting support, and countermeasures – providing enhanced situational awareness and self-protection. The system helps pilots identify, monitor, analyze, and rapidly respond to potential threats, and enables mission success in signal-dense and contested environments."