Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla, the military officer who oversaw the execution of the US’s Iran strikes in June, has retired from military service and has handed over the reins following three years leading U.S. troops in the Middle East. Kurilla became commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) in 2022 and oversaw the planning and execution of at least 15 major combined combat operations during his tenure. Among these, two occurred during his final months in command: Operation Rough Rider targeting the Houthis in Yemen in March and April, and Operation Midnight Hammer, which struck Iran’s nuclear sites in June.
Operation Midnight Hammer targeted Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. The operation involved more than 125 U.S. aircraft, including B-2 stealth bombers, according to then-Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine. A guided-missile submarine also launched more than two dozen Tomahawk cruise missiles at key Iranian targets. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth praised Kurilla’s leadership, calling him a ‘bold, dynamic, and inspiring leader who strikes fear into the hearts of America’s enemies.’ He emphasized Kurilla’s commitment to serving his country, mission, and troops.
Kurilla has spent much of his career focused on operations in the Middle East. From 2004 to 2014, he oversaw conventional and special operations forces during consecutive tours under CENTCOM’s jurisdiction. His career included assignments in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he was involved in a Mosul firefight in August 2005. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the engagement, earning a Bronze Star with valor and one of his two Purple Heart awards. Kurilla’s experience in the region has positioned him as a seasoned leader in the conflict with Iran and the Houthis.
Following Kurilla’s retirement, Adm. Brad Cooper, the current commander of the U.S. Navy, has taken over as the new CENTCOM leader. Cooper, like Kurilla, is familiar with the Middle East, as he previously served as deputy commander of CENTCOM and oversaw U.S. Naval Forces Central Command. His role included spearheading efforts to integrate unmanned service vessels into the fleet. Cooper assumed his new position on August 8 during a change of command ceremony in Tampa, Florida, where CENTCOM headquarters are located. Kurilla’s retirement ceremony also took place on the same day.
‘U.S. Central Command and the entire joint force have performed exceptionally well under the leadership of Gen. Kurilla, helping to bolster partnerships, increase the lethality of U.S. forces, and defend Americans and civilians abroad,’ Cooper stated in a Navy statement. ‘I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead America’s sons and daughters as we support the important mission of enhancing regional security and stability in the Central Command region.’
Other notable figures who have led CENTCOM include former defense secretaries such as Gen. Jim Mattis, who served during Trump’s first term, and Gen. Lloyd Austin, who led during former President Joe Biden’s administration. As the US continues its military presence in the Middle East, the transition of command marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict with Iran and its allies.