U.S. President Donald Trump has nominated Vice Admiral Brad Cooper to become the next top commander of U.S. forces in the Middle East, a position of heightened significance as regional instability continues to escalate.
If confirmed, Cooper would become only the second Navy admiral to lead U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees American military operations across the Middle East. He currently serves as CENTCOM’s Deputy Commander and brings extensive experience in regional military affairs, reports Al-Rai daily.
The nomination comes as the current CENTCOM chief, Army General Erik Kurilla, prepares to retire after more than three years in the role.
The announcement underscores the strategic weight of CENTCOM at a time when the Trump administration is advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza after 20 months of conflict and is also engaged in sensitive talks with Iran over its accelerating nuclear program.
Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also announced the nomination of Air Force Lieutenant General Dagvin Anderson to lead U.S. Africa Command. If confirmed, Anderson would be the first Air Force officer to hold the role since the command’s inception in 2007.
