Today, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East Policy Ms. Dana Stroul announced her departure from her leadership role effective Dec. 20. We thank Ms. Stroul for her exceptional service and contributions to our national security, in particular her work in the Middle East region, where her tremendous leadership of defense policy and strategy was distinguished by her remarkable ability to forge strong and effective relationships with Allies and Partners. Her strategic acumen and leadership have been instrumental in advancing U.S. interests and policies in the region, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come.
We also extend a warm welcome to Mr. Daniel B. Shapiro as the new Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Middle East Policy. Mr. Shapiro's extensive experience, including his roles as U.S. Ambassador to Israel and Senior Advisor to the Special Envoy for Iran, positions him exceptionally well to pick up right where Dana left off, and guide our policy approach in this critical region of the world.