General Joseph Votel

General Joseph Votel is a retired U.S. Army officer known for his leadership in various military roles, including serving as the commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), where he oversaw military operations in the Middle East. He played a key role in the fight against ISIS and in U.S. strategy in the region. Votel is recognized for his emphasis on understanding local cultures and developing partnerships with allies. After retiring in 2019, he has remained active in defense policy discussions and contributes to national security dialogues through various think tanks and organizations.