Statements

TAMPA, Fla. Sept. 4, 2021

U.S. forces participate in Exercise Bright Star in Egypt

TAMPA, Fla. – The U.S., along with forces from partner nations, have joined the Arab Republic of Egypt for Exercise Bright Star 2021 at Mohamed Naguib Military Base, Egypt on Sept. 2 - 16.

TAMPA, Fla. Sept. 1, 2021

U.S. Central Command Statement on the Realignment of the State of Israel

Today, U.S. Central Command assumed combatant command responsibility for U.S. forces in the State of Israel.

TAMPA, Fla. Aug. 29, 2021

UPDATE: U.S. Central Command statement on defensive strike in Kabul

We are aware of reports of civilian casualties following our strike on a vehicle in Kabul today.

TAMPA, Fla. Aug. 29, 2021

U.S. Central Command statement on defensive strike in Kabul

U.S. military forces conducted a self-defense unmanned over-the-horizon airstrike today on a vehicle in Kabul, eliminating an imminent ISIS-K threat to Hamad Karzai International airport.

TAMPA, Fla. Aug. 27, 2021

U.S. Central Command statement on counterterrorism strike on ISIS-K planner

U.S. military forces conducted an over-the-horizon counterterrorism operation today against an ISIS-K planner.

TAMPA, Fla. Aug. 26, 2021

Statement by U.S. Central Command on the Attack at Hamid Karzai International Airport

I can confirm that subsequent to Gen. McKenzie's remarks, a thirteenth U.S. service member has died from his wounds suffered as a result of the attack on Abbey Gate.

Aug. 23, 2021

CENTCOM Statement on Exchange of Recent Gunfire Exchange at Hamid Karzai International Airport, Aug. 23, 2021

CENTCOM Statement on Exchange of Recent Gunfire Exchange at Hamid Karzai International Airport, Aug. 23, 2021

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Frank McKenzie, the commander of U.S. Central Command, arrives at Hamid Karzai International Airport, Afghanistan on August 17, 2021. (U.S. Navy photo by Capt. William Urban)

TAMPA, Fla Aug. 17, 2021

Statement from Commander, U.S. Central Command, Gen Frank McKenzie

Today, I had an opportunity to evaluate the situation at Hamid Karzai International Airport and engage with U.S. military leaders on the ground providing security to the airport. I saw firsthand our defensive lay down and the work our forces are doing to efficiently operate the airfield while ensuring the safe movement of civilians and diplomats who are leaving Kabul.

TAMPA, Fla. Aug. 16, 2021

U.S. Central Command Statement on C-17 Flight from Hamid Karzai International Airport

We can confirm that a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III transported approximately 640 Afghan citizens from Hamid Karzai International Airport Sunday night.

Gen. Frank McKenzie, commander, U.S. Central Command addresses the press in Kabul about the security situation in Afghanistan, July 25, 2021. McKenzie reiterated U.S. support to the government’s plan for the defense of Afghanistan through air strikes, contract logistics support, intelligence sharing, and funding for the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF). “Specific support that I reassured the government that we are continuing to provide includes airstrikes in defense of ANDSF forces under attack by the Taliban, contract logistics support both here in Kabul and over-the-horizon in the region, funding for them, intelligence sharing, and advising and assisting through security consultations at the strategic level,” said McKenzie. (U.S. Central Command Public Affairs courtesy photo)

July 26, 2021

Gen McKenzie press availability opening remarks, Kabul, Afghanistan July 25, 2021

Gen McKenzie - Thank you or joining me here today. I want to give you an update to our continuing assistance to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and and the ANDSF.