WASHINGTON — The top U.S. general for the Middle East warned Congress of the escalating violence in the region fueled by Iran, which poses the most probable threat to the U.S. homeland. Gen. Erik Kurilla, head of U.S. Central Command, highlighted the rising risks of violent extremist attacks in Afghanistan on American and Western interests abroad, emphasizing the continued capability and intent of Islamic State group affiliates.
In a testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Kurilla painted a grim picture of the Middle East region following a devastating attack on Israel, showcasing the mounting tensions brought about by Iran-backed militant groups in various countries. He mentioned the threats to maritime traffic in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, as well as the targeting of U.S. bases and troops.
Responding to the escalating violence, the U.S. has launched retaliatory strikes in Iraq and Syria and maintained a persistent campaign against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. Kurilla acknowledged the challenges in allocating military surveillance resources, citing the need to divert assets to different regions for enhanced protection.
Despite efforts to deter attacks, Kurilla noted the persistence of Houthi rebel assaults on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, raising concerns about Iran’s continued support for militias in Iraq and Syria. The general emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive approach beyond military action to address the Iranian threat effectively.
Addressing inquiries from senators about potential actions against Iranian ships transporting weapons and supplies to militias, Kurilla emphasized the complexity of deterring Iran. He highlighted the use of directed energy weapons to counter drone threats, underscoring the importance of expanding such capabilities within the Navy.
In conclusion, Kurilla stressed the critical need for strategic responses to the evolving security challenges in the Middle East region, emphasizing the need for a multi-faceted approach to effectively address the threats posed by Iran and its proxies. He underscored the importance of continued vigilance and adaptation in the face of dynamic security threats.