On Friday, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) inaugurated a Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) in southern Israel. This establishment occurred five days following global leaders’ endorsement of a U.S.-mediated initiative to conclude the Israel-Hamas conflict, with the CMCC intended to function as the primary center for
A news release indicated that the CMCC’s purpose is to bolster stabilization initiatives.
Last week, sources disclosed that approximately 200 personnel had arrived in Israel, accompanied by a C-17 transport aircraft filled with command-and-control apparatus and provisions.
U.S. military personnel will not be deployed within Gaza itself. Instead, their efforts will concentrate on facilitating the movement of humanitarian, logistical, and security aid from international partners into Gaza.
“Convening stakeholders who are committed to achieving successful stabilization in Gaza is crucial for a peaceful transition,” declared CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper in a news release. He added, “Over the forthcoming two weeks, the center will incorporate representatives from allied nations, non-governmental organizations, global institutions, and the private sector as they reach the coordination center.”
Furthermore, the CMCC will supervise the execution of the ceasefire accord. It features an operations floor specifically designed to monitor ongoing developments within Gaza in real-time.
The release also mentioned that its offices and meeting areas are configured to “promote collaborative planning among leadership, delegates, and staff.”
It has been learned that the CMCC will be situated several miles
Approximately 200 U.S. service members, specializing in transportation, planning, security, logistics, and engineering, established the CMCC. This endeavor was carried out under the command of U.S. Army Central commander Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank.
Cooper noted in a statement, “The team dedicated immense effort to construct the CMCC from its inception.” He further added, “They can be immensely proud of establishing a facility vital for facilitating the shift to civilian administration in Gaza.”
Given the extensive tunnel network beneath Gaza City, these tunnels will require filling to ensure the ground is sufficiently stable for subsequent construction.
Hamas has not yet repatriated all 28 bodies of the deceased hostages, which is impeding the commencement of the subsequent phase.
The entity, which has reaffirmed its dedication to recovering all hostage remains, received the bodies of seven identified hostages this week, in addition to one Palestinian who was erroneously included among them.
This report included contributions from Jennifer Griffin and Rachel Wolf of Digital.