JERUSALEM, Israel: General Michael Kurilla, head of US Central Command, arrived in Israel to evaluate the security situation as concerns of a regional conflict grow. During his visit, Kurilla met with Israeli army chief, Lt. General Herzi Halevi, where they conducted a joint assessment on security and strategic issues, focusing on regional threats.
The United States has reinforced its military presence in the region, deploying additional fighter jets and warplanes to support Israel. This move comes amid heightened tensions following the recent assassinations of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr. Israel has acknowledged its role in Shukr’s death but has remained silent on Haniyeh’s killing, which Iran attributes to Israel.
Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized the significance of Kurilla’s visit, stating, “Your arrival in Israel at this time is a direct translation of US support for Israel into action. The relationship between Israel and the United States is unshakeable.” Gallant and Kurilla discussed enhancing the international coalition against Iran and its proxies’ aggressive activities and their destabilizing impact on the Middle East.
A European diplomat in Tel Aviv noted the anticipation of a coordinated response from Iran and its allies. “That doesn’t mean there will be a simultaneous response from all fronts. But in any case, it will be a coordinated response,” he said, speaking anonymously. Efforts are ongoing to de-escalate the situation, with diplomatic communities urging both sides to tone down aggressive rhetoric.
A European diplomat highlighted that the situation contains all the elements of a Greek tragedy, with involved parties who do not desire war yet are driven by their own actions, stances, and inflammatory rhetoric. The diplomat emphasized the urgent need for restraint, warning that the risk of conflict escalation is currently greater than at any time since October 7.
