Gaza Operations and Regional Security Top US-Israel Discussions
US Central Command (CENTCOM) Deputy Commander Vice Admiral Brad Cooper arrived in Israel last week for meetings with Israeli Deputy Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Amir Baram to address regional security challenges, including the escalating missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthi movement in Yemen. The talks also focused on bolstering US-Israel defense collaboration in light of threats across the Middle East.
The meetings included visits to key Israeli Air Force bases, such as Nevatim, where officials reviewed operational capabilities and discussed strategies for joint military responses. Cooper and Baram also attended briefings on enemy tactics at Division 80 and the Northern Command, underscoring the ongoing efforts to counter Houthi aggression and other threats backed by Iran.
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The Houthi movement, supported by Iran, has intensified its attacks on Israel since October 2024, launching over 200 ballistic missiles and nearly 200 drones. While most of these have been intercepted by Israeli air defense systems, the strikes have caused substantial damage, including 11 million shekels ($3 million) in destruction to a school near Tel Aviv. Retaliatory strikes by Israel, including large-scale attacks on Houthi-controlled ports and infrastructure, as well as a US airstrike in late December, have failed to stop the attacks.
This visit followed December talks between CENTCOM Chief Gen. Michael Kurilla and Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, which highlighted regional security threats, particularly along Israel’s northern front and from Iran. Since 2021, military coordination with Israel has officially been under CENTCOM’s purview, enabling closer cooperation with moderate Arab states in the region under the framework of the Abraham Accords.
Meanwhile, Israel continues its military operations in Gaza, with the IDF reporting progress in neutralizing Hamas fighters and dismantling their infrastructure. The Kfir Brigade has played a significant role, destroying tunnels and locating weapons while engaging in close combat in northern Gaza. These operations, which have eliminated over 300 Hamas fighters, have come at a high cost. In recent days, the IDF confirmed the deaths of three personnel in Gaza: Staff Sgt. Ido Samiach, Maj. Dvir Zion Revah, and Capt. Eitan Israel Shiknazi. Tributes poured in for the fallen soldiers, honoring their dedication and sacrifices.
