Top US general visits Israel ahead of next round of US-Iran nuclear talks
The CENTCOM commander's latest visit comes as the Pentagon considers maintaining two aircraft carriers in the Middle East in case diplomatic overtures to rein in Iran's nuclear enrichment should fail.
WASHINGTON / PARIS — The top commander of American forces in the Middle East, Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla, arrived in Israel Thursday evening, an Israeli security source and a US defense official confirmed to Al-Monitor.
Kurilla's latest visit to Israel came ahead of other expected stops in the Middle East as the Pentagon continues to sustain two aircraft carriers in the region amid the Trump administration’s nuclear diplomacy with Iran.
Citing unnamed security sources, Israeli news site Ynet reported Kurilla's expected 36-hour stay will entail coordination with top Israeli military officials on the potential for joint strikes against Iran as well as defensive measures to blunt any Iranian retaliation.
US officials have not commented on the substance of any planned discussions. A spokesperson for US Central Command was not immediately available to respond to Al-Monitor's request for comment.
