Washington, May 15: The U.S. military defended its operations against Iran during a Senate hearing. The Trump administration is facing scrutiny regarding its military actions against Iran. Several senators expressed concerns about the increasing economic and regional risks. Meanwhile, U.S. military officials asserted that Tehran’s military capabilities have been significantly weakened.
Admiral Charles Cooper II, presenting before the Senate Armed Services Committee, defended “Operation Epic Fury,” stating that the U.S. military has successfully diminished Iran’s ability to project power in the Middle East.
Cooper informed lawmakers, “In less than 40 days, CENTCOM forces have achieved our military objectives. We have reduced Iran’s capacity to project power beyond its borders, endangering the region and our interests.”
He claimed that Iran’s missile, drone, and naval industrial infrastructure has been nearly 90% destroyed. He further stated that Tehran’s navy may not regain its former strength for a generation.
During his testimony, Cooper remarked, “The Iranian regime has spread terror in the region and has made hostility towards the United States a core principle of its governance.”
Republican senators strongly supported the administration’s military campaign. Senator Roger Wicker noted that Iran has supported terrorism for decades, attacked U.S. interests, and developed nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities.
Senator Tom Cotton argued that Iran is now significantly less of a threat compared to before the operation commenced. Admiral Cooper agreed, stating that Tehran can no longer conduct large-scale missile and drone attacks as seen in recent years.
However, Democratic senators continuously questioned the Trump administration’s strategy and the long-term implications of the conflict. Senator Jack Reed stated that there is no purely military solution to the Iranian nuclear issue. He criticized the administration for lacking a credible strategy for victory.
Senator Tim Kaine accused the administration of abandoning diplomacy and warned against another prolonged conflict in the Middle East. Kaine stated, “If you make diplomacy impossible, you will make war inevitable.”
During the hearing, several senators raised concerns about the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on global trade and oil prices. They warned that disruptions in this strategic waterway are already increasing costs for American consumers.
Cooper acknowledged that Iran still possesses the capability to threaten shipping and infrastructure, although he emphasized that those capabilities have been significantly reduced.
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