New Leadership for US Special Operations Command Central

Aug 15, 2026

73 min

Aug 15, 2026 10:30

US special operations gets new chief amid Iran war as Jeffers takes new Gaza role

## Leadership Transition

The US Special Operations Command Central (SOCCENT) has appointed Rear Adm. Thomas Donovan as its new commander, succeeding Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers. This change comes amid ongoing military tensions with Iran, highlighting the US's strategic focus on the Middle East.

## Ceremony Details

The change of command ceremony took place on August 14 at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida. Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank, deputy commander of US Central Command, officiated the event. Donovan, a former Navy SEAL, brings extensive experience from his previous role as commander of the Special Reconnaissance and Enabling Command.

## Jeffers' New Role

Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers, who led SOCCENT since June 2024, will now take on a new position as the commander of the International Stabilisation Force, supporting the Gaza peace initiative. During his tenure, Jeffers was praised for his innovative leadership across a vast area covering the Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia.

## Donovan's Background

Donovan, originally from Portsmouth, Virginia, began his military career in 1996 after graduating from the US Naval Academy. His leadership is expected to continue the focus on regional stability and the use of advanced technologies like drones to counter threats.

## Ongoing Middle East Engagement

The leadership transition occurs as US forces remain actively involved in the Middle East, with SOCCENT playing a crucial role in special operations across the region. The ongoing conflict with Iran continues to shape US military strategies and priorities.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents

LinkedIn X Facebook WhatsApp Telegram