A Signature Annual Gathering
MEI was proud to host the CENTCOM Commander Council Reception on October 112, 2025 at its headquarters in Washington, DC. The evening brought together an extraordinary group of senior military, diplomatic, and policy leaders — many longtime colleagues and friends — for a candid exchange of views on the Middle East's evolving security landscape.
Featured Speakers
Gen. John P. Abizaid, USA (Ret.)
8th Commander of U.S. Central Command
Former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia
Chairman of the Middle East Institute Board of Governors
Gen. Kenneth F. McKenzie, Jr., USMC (Ret.)
14th Commander of U.S. Central Command
MEI Distinguished Military Fellow
Gen. Joseph L. Votel, USA (Ret.)
13th Commander of U.S. Central Command
10th Commander of Special Operations Command
Member of the MEI Board of Governors
MEI Distinguished Military Fellow
David Ignatius (moderator)
Columnist, The Washington Post
View Program Book [PDF]
Lead Sponsor
With Support From the Embassy of Iraq
Event Sponsors
Additional Supporters: Dr. Aizen Marrogi and Dr. Bong Kim, TCOM, L.P., McAleese & Associates, SNC, Rhea Space Activity, and Robert Fardi
2024 Program
On October 13, 2024, MEI hosted its second annual CENTCOM Commanders Council Dinner at its headquarters in Washington, D.C. The evening featured a keynote address by Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, the 15th and current Commander of U.S. Central Command, followed by an off-record panel discussion with Gen. (ret.) John Abizaid, Gen. (ret.) Joseph Votel, Amb. Anne Patterson, and Mr. David Schenker.
2023 Program
On September 14th, 2023, MEI hosted its inaugural CENTCOM Commanders Council Dinner at its headquarters in Washington D.C. The dinner featured an off-record conversation with four former CENTCOM Commanders: Generals (ret.) Anthony Zinni, John Abizaid, Joseph Votel, and Frank McKenzie; as well as remarks from the current CENTCOM Director of Strategy, Plans, and Policy, Maj. Gen. Sean M. Salene.