US Top Mideast Commander Arrives In Israel

The top US general overseeing American forces in the Middle East made an unannounced trip to Israel on Tuesday ahead of a visit by President Joe Biden on Wednesday.

He expressed hope to be able to ensure the Israeli military has what it needs as it fights a deepening war against Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The trip by Army General Michael "Erik" Kurilla, head of US Central Command, is the latest by a senior US official to Israel ahead of an expected ground assault by Israel's military in Gaza.

The US military is increasing its firepower in the region, aiming to prevent Iran and other Iran-backed groups from getting involved in the conflict as international fears of a wider, regional war grow.

The Pentagon is also rushing weaponry, including air defenses and munitions, to Israel.

"I'm here to ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself, particularly focused on avoiding other parties expanding the conflict," Kurilla told Reuters, which is traveling with him, in brief remarks before landing.

A US official told Reuters Kurilla was scheduled to hold high-level meetings with Israel's military leadership, ensuring a clear understanding of the close US ally's defense requirements.

Kurilla was also expected to outline US military support aimed at avoiding an expansion of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Washington has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group to the eastern Mediterranean and is sending another carrier to the region in the coming days, moves the Biden administration says are meant as a deterrent, not a provocation.

The US already has a network of bases in the Middle East with troops, fighter aircraft and warships.

The United States has also told some troops, potentially 2,000, to be ready to deploy within 24 hours if notified - instead of the usual 96 hours - and could include units that provide assistance like medical aid if needed, a US official said on Monday.

Report by Reuters