U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin held phone talks with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant on Sunday, the U.S. Department of Defense said in a statement.

"They discussed U.S. force posture moves that the Department is taking to bolster protection for U.S. forces, support the defense of Israel, and deter and de-escalate broader tensions in the region," the department said.

"Secretary Austin also expressed strong support for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal," it added.