Washington – President Barack Obama plans to name CIA Director Leon Panetta defense secretary and Gen. David Petraeus, now running the war in Afghanistan, as chief of the intelligence agency, according to administration officials.
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The changes would probably take effect this summer. Defense Secretary Robert Gates already has said he will leave this year.
The officials say Mr. Obama also is expected to announce that Lt. Gen. John Allen will succeed Gen. Petraeus as Afghanistan commander and that diplomat Ryan Crocker will be the next U.S. ambassador in Afghanistan.
The changes are expected to be announced Thursday at the White House
Just like playing chess
Panetta is an experienced political operative and smart guy who can manage the conflicting demands on the Defense Dept. at a time of multiple wars and pressures for budget reductions. Most important, he is a long-time and solid friend of EY and has close ties to many Israeli leaders and generals.