US and Israel Emphasize Countering Iran's 'Malicious Influence' in the Region

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced in a statement that General Michael Erik Kurilla, the commander of CENTCOM, discussed Iran's 'malicious influence' in the Middle East during a meeting with Herzi Halevi, the Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, on Wednesday, February 19. According to the statement, the cessation of hostilities in Lebanon, a ceasefire in Gaza, and the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen were other topics discussed during the meeting between these two high-ranking military officials in Florida. The CENTCOM statement adds that the CENTCOM commander and the Chief of Staff of the Israeli army also exchanged views on the deep and enduring defense partnership between the two countries, with Kurilla praising Halevi's ongoing efforts to strengthen the ironclad relations of the two militaries. On Friday, CENTCOM announced that the 'International Maritime Exercise 2025' has concluded, involving over 30 countries and international organizations and 5,000 personnel and military forces. According to the statement, this 12-day exercise, which began on February 10, hosted by CENTCOM's naval forces, provided a unique opportunity to showcase regional and international cooperation in maritime security. Participating countries and international organizations in the 'International Maritime Exercise 2025' practiced collaboration on how to deal with naval mines, unmanned systems and artificial intelligence, ship defense, search and rescue operations, and responding to mass casualties. The Iran-backed Houthis, especially after the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel in 2023, have repeatedly attacked vessels passing through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden under the pretext of supporting Palestinians, despite warnings from the international community. In response, the US and its allied countries have formed a maritime coalition to protect international shipping security and counter the Houthi provocations, targeting the positions of this Iran-backed group with heavy attacks. Rubio: The Iranian government cannot acquire nuclear weapons to hold the world hostage. The second flight of US bombers in the Middle East in the past 48 hours. Netanyahu: Trump and I have a common goal regarding the Islamic Republic. Introduction of 'Phantom Fleet Commanders' by the United Against a Nuclear Iran organization. Fire on a cargo ship off the coast of Yemen; crew rescued. Suspension of UN trips to Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. UK warning about radio disruption of ships by the IRGC.