"Tuberville's Persistent Blockade: Military Appointments in the Middle East Remain at a Standstill"

Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville's ongoing hold on military confirmations is impacting senior military appointments in the Middle East, including the promotion of the current commander of the US Navy's 5th fleet to deputy commander of US Central Command. Tuberville is refusing to relent until the Pentagon revokes its policy of reimbursing service members for health care-related travel, which he argues facilitates abortions. This blockade has led to significant reshuffling of Pentagon leadership roles, with some senior officers performing two jobs and key positions being held by more junior officers.