The Role of CENTCOM in Military Operations

CENTCOM was established in the early 1980s to oversee military operations in the Middle East as a response to geopolitical threats, particularly from the Soviet Union. Originally, responsibilities were divided among European and Pacific commands, which created organizational challenges in addressing regional conflicts effectively. With the rise of oil dependence and concerns about regional security, CENTCOM was formulated to ensure a coordinated military approach, galvanizing a single command to manage U.S. interests in the area. Over the years, CENTCOM's focus evolved from oil security to countering extremism and maintaining alliances, emphasizing its strategic importance amid changing global threats.