CENTCOM Commander on Strait of Hormuz Security and Iran Blockade

Hi, I'm Admiral Brad Cooper,

Commander of US Central Command.

Earlier this week, I visited some of the more than fifty

thousand service

members supporting operations across the Middle East,

including our mission

in the Strait of Hormuz.

When I flew over the Strait, I saw dozens of commercial vessels

transiting all types, cargo, crude oil,

liquid

natural gas, or LNG.

And I also saw our

US assets in the air and on the water, including a

squadron of advanced sea drones that were on patrol supporting a

defensive layer.

Here's what I didn't see. I didn't see the IRGC out

there at all.

They patrolled the Strait of Hormuz

and surrounding waters for decades,

harassing and threatening and seizing commercial vessels at

will. But they were

not out there because Iran's

navy is all at the

bottom of the sea.

After we sank Iran's navy earlier this year, we also

successfully cleared the Strait's

internationally recognized primary transit

routes of Iranian sea mines.

And today, US forces

remain highly vigilant and present to ensure that all primary

transit routes in the

Strait of Hormuz remain free and clear.

This week, we reached a significant milestone,

having now assisted Gulf

partners in exporting more than one point five billion

barrels of crude oil since summer.

US forces have been laser-focused in this effort in coordination

with regional partners, other US government teammates,

and the shipping

industry. Meanwhile, we've prevented Iran from exporting any

oil because of the

ironclad blockade on Iranian ports.

I strongly believe that every success begins

and ends with our people,

and our incredible men and women in uniform represent the very

best. During my trip, I met with teams who executed the mine

clearance mission in the Strait of Hormuz, and who continue to provide

coordinated protection for commercial

shipping as we strictly enforce the

ongoing blockade.

Since day one, America's sons

and daughters serving in the Middle

East have shown relentless commitment, dedication, and courage.

It's been the honor of a lifetime to serve alongside them and

recognize them for their tremendous accomplishments on behalf of the nation.

As their commander, I could not be

prouder, and I know

that the families,

friends, loved ones, and the American people back home share in

this

pride. To all our

service members,

keep up the great

work, and Godspeed.

Thanks so much.