US Central Command Chief: Iran Possessed Highly Enriched Uranium Before War

Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee that Iran possessed uranium enriched to 60% prior to the recent conflict with the United States and Israel. Cooper asserted that such enrichment levels have no civilian application and indicated that military actions have significantly delayed Iran's potential nuclear weapon development. He further reported that US and Israeli strikes have virtually eliminated Iran's large-scale ballistic missile production capabilities, which had surged in late 2025. According to Cooper, rebuilding these military assets will take years, while reconstituting the navy could require a full generation. Consequently, Iran is currently unable to supply regional proxies like Hezbollah, Hamas, and Houthi rebels. Despite a brief ceasefire brokered by Pakistan in April 2026 and subsequent talks in Islamabad, no final peace agreement has been reached. The ongoing conflict continues to disrupt global energy supplies and regional stability as both sides exchange proposals for further negotiations. The testimony highlights the severe degradation of Iran's military infrastructure and its diminished influence across the Middle East following the intensive campaign.