CENTCOM Chief: Iran's Strait Hold Weakened, Threats Persist
Admiral Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command, testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee regarding the outcomes of Operation Epic Fury against Iran. He reported that U.S. forces successfully destroyed over 90% of Iran’s 8,000 naval mines and damaged more than 85% of its ballistic missile, drone, and naval industrial base through 1,450 strikes. Cooper stated that while Iran’s ability to disrupt commerce in the Strait of Hormuz has been significantly degraded, residual threats remain influential in merchant and insurance sectors. He estimated it would take Iran a generation to rebuild its navy. Despite a ceasefire effective since April 7, tensions persist with ongoing blockades and sporadic fire. The testimony also highlighted political friction, as Senator Tim Kaine criticized the administration for withholding the Justice Department’s legal justification for the strikes. Cooper declined to discuss potential intelligence support from China and Russia in open session. The hearing underscored the strategic impact of the military campaign while acknowledging the complex diplomatic negotiations for a long-term peace deal centered on the crucial waterway.
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