Saudi Defence Minister holds talks at the Pentagon

Prince Khalid bin Salman's Washington visit comes as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman attend a Pentagon arrival ceremony. AP

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin met his Saudi equivalent Prince Khalid bin Salman at the Pentagon on Wednesday.

Prince Khalid is visiting Washington this week as the Israel-Gaza war continues.

"Secretary Austin emphasised US commitment to the territorial defence of the kingdom, and to reinforcing and expanding a strong, bilateral defence partnership," the Pentagon said.

"He expressed deep thanks for the Minister of Defence's leadership, including sustained support and co-ordination in working toward a durable peace for Yemen.

"He also commended Saudi humanitarian support to Ukraine, and efforts in Sudan to host diplomatic talks and support of evacuation operations."

Prince Khalid then met Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the State Department.

On Monday, he met White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan for talks focused on continuing efforts to strengthen the defence partnership between Washington and Riyadh, and the need to increase humanitarian assistance for the people of Gaza, the White House said.

Mr Austin spoke to Prince Khalid about the need for the "protection of civilians and unfettered access for the delivery of humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza", the Pentagon said.

Both leaders agreed to work together towards preventing regional escalation, it said.