(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-04-23 23:33

WASHINGTON - Defense Secretary Robert Gates on Wednesday recommended the top US commander in Iraq, Gen. David Petraeus, to lead Central Command, the military command responsible for all Middle East operations.

US military commander in Iraq General David Petraeus salutes during the 77th Iraqi Air Force day celebration in Baghdad's Muttana air base April 22, 2008. [Agencies]

Gates also recommended Lt. Gen. Raymond Odierno as top commander in Iraq.

Gates said President George W. Bush approved the recommendations and would send the nominations to the US Senate.