US Central Command Chief Advises Halting Strikes Near Strait of Hormuz Citing Limited Effectiveness

Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of the US Central Command, recommended ending American airstrikes around the Strait of Hormuz, stating they had reached the limit of their effectiveness. This advice reportedly influenced President Donald Trump’s decision to halt US attacks against Iran over the weekend. Cooper argued that continuing the current bombing campaign was futile unless the US expanded to broader combat operations to complete the remaining 20 percent of targets not hit during Operation Epic Rage.

Additionally, General Dan McKenzie, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, privately warned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and President Trump about the risks posed by a shortage of air defense interceptors, which could undermine the protection of US and allied forces in the region. Concurrently, Israeli security officials have been intensifying dialogue with counterparts in Middle Eastern countries to strengthen security cooperation amid expectations of a potential US escalation in strikes against Iran, which could trigger wider regional conflict.

Israeli sources confirmed ongoing communication with regional partners who recognize the threat from the Iranian regime, continuing the coordination seen during Operation Roaring Lion. The US has also deployed additional infrastructure and resources in the Middle East to support regional partners, including Israel, against Iranian threats. Reports indicate Israel is eager to resume strikes on Iran, targeting nuclear facilities as well as energy infrastructure and refineries, aiming to pressure Tehran to abandon its nuclear program.