Top US commander in the Middle East is under investigation

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Army’s Criminal Investigation Division is looking into allegations that the four-star general who heads U.S. Central Command shoved a member of his air crew during a trip overseas, according to U.S. officials.

Officials said Army Gen. Erik Kurilla became angry during a flight and pushed the service member. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the assault allegations, which recently came to light. Kurilla is still in service and is currently in the Middle East.

The Army’s Criminal Investigation Division said in a statement Friday that it is “aware of an alleged incident and is currently investigating it. No further information is available at this time.”

The division routinely conducts preliminary investigations when allegations of misconduct are made to determine whether a full investigation is warranted.

Kurilla traveled extensively in the Middle East, including numerous trips to Israel and other allies in the region, as Israel’s war with Hamas and subsequent fighting against Hezbollah in Lebanon continued.

The investigation was first reported by NBC.