President praises Israeli-American coordination hub, signals Gaza transformation, and denounces Tehran’s brutal crackdown.
President Isaac Herzog toured the Civil-Military Coordination Center near Kiryat Gat on February 18, 2026, receiving detailed briefings on its multinational operational framework and strategic objectives.
He was updated by Major General Yaki Dolf of the Israel Defense Forces and Major General John “Brad” Bowlin of the U.S. Army, who serves as Director of the CMCC. The center functions as a joint coordination platform integrating Israeli and American military structures alongside international representatives working across civil and defense channels.
At the conclusion of the visit, Herzog described the atmosphere as extraordinary, emphasizing the visible cooperation among diverse nationalities and security forces working in tandem with the Israel Defense Forces and the U.S. Army.
Referring to developments in Gaza, Herzog expressed optimism about a future shaped by the decision of the Board of Peace, the implementation of the 20-Point Peace Plan advanced by Donald Trump, and a corresponding resolution of the United Nations Security Council.
He said tangible projects and structured plans are already taking shape, describing the developments as a new avenue that could offer the people of Gaza a path toward recovery and stability. According to Herzog, what is emerging on the ground represents a meaningful transformation with the potential to reshape the region’s trajectory.
Ramadan Message of Peace
Addressing the approaching month of Ramadan, Herzog extended greetings to Muslim citizens of Israel, Muslims across the region, neighboring countries, allies, and friends worldwide. He expressed hopes for a month defined by peace, recovery, and renewed optimism for Gaza and the broader Middle East.
He underscored that what he witnessed at the CMCC were concrete projects and operational steps, not abstract declarations, stating his belief that the initiative could become a pivotal turning point for regional stability and global peace efforts.
Sharp Criticism of Iranian Regime
Turning to events in Iran, Herzog sharply criticized the ruling regime, accusing it of brutal repression and widespread suffering inflicted upon its own population in recent weeks. He described the situation as deeply troubling and expressed solidarity with the Iranian people.
Concluding his remarks, Herzog conveyed Ramadan wishes to the citizens of Iran and voiced hope that what he termed a reign of terror would end, allowing for a different future in which regional proxies dissolve and the children of the Middle East inherit a more peaceful era.
