US defense secretary arrives in Jordan at start of Mideast tour

ANKARA (AA) – US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin arrived in Jordan on Sunday on the first leg of a regional tour that also includes Israel and Egypt.

"The enduring and strategic partnership between the United States and Jordan is strong," Austin wrote on Twitter.

"I look forward to collaborating on shared interests that will deliver positive outcomes for both nations," he added.

US officials said the tour aims to show US support and commitment to its regional allies against the growing Iranian threat.

* Writing by Ahmed Asmar