Admiral Brad Cooper defended the Trump administration’s military actions against Iran, stating that Iran’s military capabilities had been significantly reduced due to US-led operations. Operations like “Epic Fury” and “Midnight Hammer” were highlighted for dismantling Iran’s power projection abilities. Cooper emphasized that these actions had made the US safer, as he testified before the House Armed Services Committee.
The hearings took place amidst increased political scrutiny over the conflict with Iran, which has lasted nearly three months. Cooper informed lawmakers that Iran’s ballistic missiles and drones had been notably degraded, with their defense industrial base largely destroyed. He also mentioned the weakening of Iran’s regional proxy network, affecting groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.
Cooper defended the US naval blockade around Iran, stating it was a crucial negotiating tool. He reported that the blockade had prevented trade in and out of Iranian ports, imposing significant economic costs on Tehran. Despite these efforts, Democratic lawmakers challenged Cooper’s assessment, expressing concerns about Iran’s ability to disrupt global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz.
Representative Adam Smith criticized the strategic situation, stating that the regime in Iran remained intact. Lawmakers raised questions about civilian casualties from US strikes in Iran, including an incident at a girls’ school in Minab. Cooper assured that investigations were ongoing and reiterated the US military’s adherence to the law of armed conflict, emphasizing that civilians were not deliberately targeted.
Cooper acknowledged the support of US allies and Gulf partners during the campaign, highlighting unprecedented regional military coordination. He mentioned working closely with partners like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, and Kuwait in a broad Middle East air defense network. Cooper emphasized the readiness of the US military for potential future scenarios if negotiations with Tehran were unsuccessful.
