Trump Appoints Former CIA Analyst Michael DiMino as Pentagon Middle East Policy Chief, Signaling Iran Strategy Shift

Jan 22, 2025, 06:08 AM

President Donald Trump has appointed Michael P. DiMino as the Pentagon's Middle East policy chief, indicating a potential shift in U.S. strategy towards Iran. DiMino, a former CIA analyst and counterterrorism officer, is known for advocating humanitarian aid to Gaza and opposing military escalation with Iran. His appointment follows the dismissal of Brian Hook, a prominent Iran hawk. DiMino has expressed a desire to reduce America's military presence in the region, arguing that troops stationed in Iraq, Jordan, and Syria are vulnerable to Iranian provocations. This change in leadership at the Pentagon may signal a move towards a more diplomatic approach in U.S. foreign policy regarding the Middle East.