CENTCOM holds meeting of military leaders from eight countries in Germany — Anadolu Agency
US Central Command (CENTCOM) last week held a scheduled conference in Germany involving senior military leaders from eight countries. Participants discussed opportunities to strengthen security cooperation in the Middle East.
Meeting participants
A US official speaking on condition of anonymity did not specify which countries were represented at the conference or which specific issues were discussed. The meeting was reported by Anadolu Agency.
Meanwhile, Axios, citing two Israeli officials, wrote that the conference was attended by the chiefs of staff of Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan and Egypt.
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Shipping security
According to Axios, Cooper told participants that the US military would not withdraw forces from the region despite Iranian attacks on US bases. He also informed those present about US plans to expand ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
The meeting took place amid tensions between Iran and the United States over the Strait of Hormuz. In June, a memorandum was signed that provided for an agreement to reopen the strategic waterway as a prerequisite for a broader peace deal. The report also notes that Houthi forces intensified attacks on Saudi Arabia and advanced toward control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Regional conflict
In February, the United States and Israel carried out large-scale attacks on Iran, striking government buildings, military facilities, missile infrastructure and air defense systems. In response, Iran launched missile and drone strikes on Israel and US bases in the region. The conflict has since spread across the region, while diplomatic efforts to end the hostilities continue.
