Senior US Military Commander to Visit Israel Amid Rising Tensions with Iran
In a significant development following Iran's recent missile assault, General Michael Kurilla, the commander of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), is set to visit Israel within the next 24 hours. This visit is aimed at coordinating a response to the Iranian missile attack that occurred on October 1, where Iran launched over 200 ballistic missiles targeting military and critical sites across Israel. The attack was reportedly in retaliation for the assassination of key figures in the region, including Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas, and Hassan Nasrallah, the Secretary-General of Hezbollah.
Israeli military officials have confirmed that they are preparing for a substantial counterattack against Iran, with Chief of Staff General Herzi Halevi emphasizing that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are actively planning a significant operation in response to the missile barrage. Halevi stated that Israel would choose the appropriate time and location for this retaliation, asserting that it would not be a minor response but a serious military engagement.
The Israeli Security Cabinet has reportedly decided to retaliate against Iran, with discussions indicating a desire to conduct a major operation without diverting from their broader war objectives. US President Joe Biden has reiterated the United States' support for Israel, maintaining constant communication regarding the situation, while also advising caution in the approach to retaliation, suggesting that alternative strategies should be considered instead of direct strikes on Iranian assets.
