CENTCOM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 20, 2008 – Influencing, countering and ultimately defeating regional threat networks in the greater Middle East will require a “whole-of-many-nations'-governments approach,” a U.S. commander said during a conference call yesterday with military bloggers and online journalists.

Faced with threats from al-Qaida and similar groups, as well as a nonspecific “malign Iranian influence,” U.S. and allied strategic planners are expanding their toolkits beyond military force to include diplomacy, communication, humanitarian assistance and other civilian-oriented tools, said Air Force Brig. Gen. Robert H. Holmes, deputy director of operations for U.S. Central Command.    » read more »

Apr 10, 2008 -- Following President Bush's announcement April 10, and as directed by the Secretary of Defense, the U.S. Army will reduce deployment lengths from 15 months to 12 months for all active Army Soldiers deploying to the CENTCOM area of operations, starting on 1 August 2008.

Today's announcement does not affect Soldiers currently deployed and those who will deploy prior to 1 August 2008. Those Soldiers will complete their scheduled deployments.

"We recognize the selfless service and unwavering commitment of America's courageous Soldiers, and are profoundly grateful for the sacrifice and support by Army Families," said Army Secretary Pete Geren.    » read more »

12/13/2007 -- "We join the people of Iraq in strongly condemning yesterday’s barbaric attack targeting the citizens of al Amarah in the Maysan Province. The United States extends its deepest condolences, support and prayers to the people of Maysan Province.

The Maysan Provincial Reconstruction Team and Multi-National Division South East are working closely with Iraqi authorities to ensure they have sufficient medical supplies and humanitarian assistance for the citizens of al Amarah. We stand ready to provide additional support as needed.    » read more »

6/27/2007 -- CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – At three o’clock in the morning and a cool 90 degrees in Baghdad, families of military members in central Texas received further clarification on redeployment dates during a live town hall meeting from Baghdad to Texas’ Fort Hood and Fort Bliss June 26.    » read more »

6/20/2007 -- BAGHDAD – Multi-National Corps-Iraq launched major offensive operations, Operation Phantom Thunder, June 16 in a powerful crackdown to defeat extremists in Iraq.

With the surge of U.S. forces complete, simultaneous operations throughout Iraq are focused on rooting out al-Qaeda terrorists and other extremist elements in order to provide security and stability for all Iraqis.    » read more »

WASHINGTON, May 3, 2007 – U.S. and coalition troops have made significant progress in improving the security situation in Iraq, but the Iraqi government and other U.S. government agencies need to act more quickly to improve the political situation and build infrastructure needed to sustain the country, the commander of U.S. Central Command said in congressional testimony today.    » read more »

May 3, 2007 -- "Today we welcome Admiral Fallon, Commander of United States Central Command, in his first appearance before this Committee since his confirmation hearing earlier this year. Admiral Fallon’s command is responsible for U.S. security interests in 25 nations that stretch from the Horn of Africa, through the Arabian Gulf region, into Central Asia. He commands the bulk of U.S. troops in combat today, and he is responsible for an area with a host of security challenges which may at any time erupt into violence requiring further military response.    » read more »