Washington, DC – The top U.S. general for the Middle East warned Congress about the growing threat of violence in the region, fueled by Iran, which poses the most likely danger to the U.S. homeland. General Erik Kurilla, leading the U.S. Central Command, raised concerns about escalating risks of attacks by violent extremists in Afghanistan on American and Western interests.
During a Senate committee hearing, Kurilla highlighted the continuing threat posed by the Islamic State group’s affiliates in Afghanistan and Syria, emphasizing their capability and willingness to launch attacks. He mentioned the possibility of an attack occurring within the next six months, potentially targeting the U.S. and its European allies with little to no warning.
The general painted a grim picture of the Middle East’s current state, citing the recent attack on Israel that resulted in tragic casualties and hostage-taking. The aftermath of this incident, coupled with Israel’s conflict in Gaza, has led to increased attacks by Iran-backed militant groups in various countries in the region, jeopardizing maritime security in key waterways and targeting U.S. military installations.
In response to these threats, the U.S. has conducted retaliatory strikes in Iraq and Syria and has maintained a sustained campaign against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. Despite these actions, challenges persist, with ongoing attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, prompting the diversion of intelligence assets from Afghanistan to bolster defenses in other regions.
Kurilla noted that while Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Syria have been deterred from launching recent attacks, Iran continues to support these groups despite temporary lulls in hostilities. The general highlighted Iran’s opportunistic approach to reshaping the Middle East in its favor, exploiting regional instability for its own gains.
During the hearing, senators questioned the adequacy of U.S. responses towards Iran, particularly concerning Iranian vessels delivering supplies to militias. Kurilla emphasized the multifaceted nature of deterring Iran, indicating that military action alone might not suffice and hinting at further details to be discussed in classified sessions.
In addition to addressing Iranian threats, Kurilla mentioned the use of directed energy weapons to counter drone attacks, advocating for increased deployment of such technology to mitigate risks and reduce reliance on costly missile systems. The evolving security landscape in the Middle East underscores the importance of strategic responses and collaborative efforts to safeguard American interests amid rising regional tensions.