James Mattis, a retired 4-star Marine Corps general who has long voiced concerns about the threat posed by Iran, is being considered to become Secretary of Defence, US president-elect Donald Trump confirmed on Sunday.
"General James "Mad Dog" Mattis, who is being considered for Secretary of Defence, was very impressive yesterday. A true General's General!" Trump said in a tweet.
Mattis, former Central Command leader, was one of several people who have met Trump and Vice president-elect Mike Pence.
The 66-year-old Marine Corps general, who memorably said "it's fun to shoot some people", would add to a cabinet of national security super-hawks and signal a return to a more aggressive defence of American interests abroad.