CENTCOM map shows Gaza as part of occupied territories, sparks controversy

Tehran - BORNA - CENTCOM initially released the map as part of a report on the 10-day tour of its commander, Brad Cooper, to the region. The original map showed the West Bank and the Gaza Strip within the same colored area representing Israel, without indicating separate borders for Palestinian territories. The image raised questions about how the US military command represents the borders of Palestinian territories.

Shortly after, CENTCOM amended the map to clearly show the West Bank and Gaza Strip as separate from Israel, based on the 1967 borders. The accompanying text provided no explanation or interpretation regarding the border designation or the representation of the West Bank and Gaza, focusing instead on the details of Cooper's tour and military activities.

The controversial move could be interpreted as implicit recognition of Israeli occupation control over Palestinian territory. CENTCOM also announced the completion of Cooper's 10-day tour of the region, which included six countries and a US Navy aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea.

Meanwhile, CENTCOM reported that US forces had altered the routes of 62 commercial vessels by August 14 to ensure compliance with sanctions imposed on Iran, stopped three vessels, and boarded and inspected two others.

End Article