U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard made an unannounced trip to the U.S.-operated Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) in Israel to assess the progress of the Trump administration’s Middle East peace plan. The CMCC, a joint effort involving 16 countries and 20 non-governmental organizations (NGOs), serves as a central hub for coordinating ceasefire stabilization efforts, humanitarian assistance, and security operations in Gaza. During her visit, Gabbard highlighted the importance of multinational collaboration, stating that the center represents a ‘living example of what can happen when nations unite for common interests.’
Gabbard, who also visited the Kerem Shalom Crossing along the Gaza border, is the latest Trump administration official to visit Israel as part of a broader push to ensure the peace plan is successful. Her trip follows similar visits by Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. Gabbard emphasized that the CMCC is central to the implementation of phase two of the ceasefire deal, which includes both stabilization and humanitarian efforts.
The CMCC, which will support the stabilization efforts inside Gaza and facilitate humanitarian and security assistance under development as part of the broader Trump administration peace plan, is expected to play a critical role in the success of the ceasefire. Gabbard noted that intelligence sharing and coordination are vital to the mission, and the U.S. presence at the CMCC is about leadership, coordination, and service.
Around 200 U.S. service members are on the ground participating in the CMCC, but will not enter the Gaza Strip. A coalition of forces from Arab countries will ultimately send stabilization personnel into the enclave to assist with implementing the administration’s peace plan. Gabbard also expressed optimism about the potential for a peaceful future, stating that ‘progress is possible with strong leadership and a shared vision for peace.’
The visit comes as the U.S. continues its diplomatic efforts in the region, with high-level officials visiting Israel to ensure that the peace plan is effectively executed. Gabbard’s remarks underscore the administration’s commitment to fostering regional cooperation and achieving lasting peace through military and diplomatic coordination.