At the Pentagon, General Kurilla calls the shots: pushing for action against Iran

The CENTCOM chief granted unusual authority by Defense Secretary Hegseth. Second aircraft carrier deployed to the Gulf

Nicknamed “the Gorilla” for his aggressive stance, General Michael Erik Kurilla, head of US Central Command, has become the central figure in shaping America’s military approach toward Iran. In recent days, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly granted him extraordinary powers, sidelining other top military leaders and giving him broad operational control in the region.

All requests granted: warships and fighter jets on the move
Since Israel launched its offensive against Iran, every request from Kurilla has been approved—from redeploying aircraft carriers to sending F22s, F35s, and F16s. According to Politico, Kurilla has had more direct access to President Trump than other generals, even bypassing Joint Chiefs Chair General Dan Caine, who has urged caution over deeper involvement in the Middle East.

Clashes within the Pentagon: Colby sidelined
Kurilla also appears to have outmaneuvered Elbridge Colby, the undersecretary for strategy and a key civilian voice aligned with America First and the MAGA movement. Hegseth—once a Fox News personality and now committed to rebuilding a “warrior military” free of “woke” influence—is said to be easily persuaded by generals with a tough, combat-oriented profile. Kurilla fits the mold perfectly.

Reinforcements heading to the Gulf
This week, the Pentagon confirmed the redeployment of the USS Nimitz to the Middle East, joining the already present USS Carl Vinson and their respective strike groups. Additional fighter jet squadrons are also being sent to the region.

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