Rear Admiral Brad Cooper, nominated to lead U.S. forces in the West Asia, told the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee during his confirmation hearing: “Iran still possesses significant tactical capabilities, and we must remain fully prepared every day.”
Highlighting the importance of ensuring the security of U.S. military personnel in the region, Cooper added: “Our focus today is on guaranteeing the safety of our forces in the West Asia, as Iran remains capable of effective military action.”
Referring to Iran’s precise missile strike on the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Cooper described it as a demonstration of the Islamic Republic’s advanced military capacity. “This attack showed that Iran still has effective operational capabilities,” he said.
The U.S. official noted that while the strike was limited, it clearly conveyed Tehran’s warning that any action against Iran’s interests would be met with a response.
Currently, approximately 40,000 US Department of Defense personnel are deployed in West Asia. Analysts say Iran’s recent precise and targeted strikes highlight the country’s intelligence dominance and advanced missile capabilities.
Mojtaba Darabi
