US Central Command Chief Visits Israel Amid Talks of Gaza Ceasefire Agreement

Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of the US Central Command, arrived in Israel on Saturday afternoon for high-level meetings, including with IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. His visit follows discussions in Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates and comes amid cautious optimism about a potential new ceasefire agreement, following statements by Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and US Vice President Kamala Harris signaling possible progress.

The US maintains heightened military readiness in the Middle East, with dozens of refueling and fighter aircraft, air defense systems, and thousands of troops stationed in Israel. Admiral Cooper is expected to inspect these forces during his visit and engage in talks concerning the Gaza Strip.

Washington has been pressing Israel to advance to the next phase in Gaza after the Peace Council announced a framework for disarming Hamas. The Israeli cabinet will need to approve this plan, which includes a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza contingent on Hamas's disarmament and the installation of a technocratic government.

The visit underscores ongoing US efforts to manage escalating tensions in the region, with senior US military officials emphasizing the necessity of concluding the conflict with Iran. Discussions are expected to focus on both immediate security concerns and longer-term political solutions in Gaza.