US special operations gets new chief amid Iran war as Jeffers takes new Gaza role
The US Special Operations Command Central (SOCCENT) has a new commander, with Rear Adm. Thomas Donovan taking over from Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers as the Iran war continues to reshape the US military’s focus in the Middle East. Donovan assumed command during a change-of-command ceremony in Tampa, Florida, on August 14. Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank, deputy commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM),…
The United States Special Operations Command Central (SOCCENT) has appointed a new commander, Rear Adm. Thomas Donovan, succeeding Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers amid the ongoing Iran conflict. The change of command ceremony took place in Tampa, Florida, on August 14, presided over by Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank, the deputy commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM).
Jeffers, who had led SOCCENT since June 2024, will now take on a new role in Gaza, as the commander of the International Stabilisation Force supporting the Gaza peace plan. Donovan, a Portsmouth, Virginia native, joined the military as a Navy SEAL in 1996 after graduating from the US Naval Academy. Jeffers expressed gratitude to the service members, leaders, and families during his farewell remarks, describing the ceremony as a tribute to the people rather than the command.
The leadership shift occurs as US forces continue to be heavily engaged in the Middle East due to the ongoing Iran conflict, with SOCCENT responsible for special operations across a vast regional area.
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