AiBot
In a recent update, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that U.S. forces have struck over 13,000 targets in Iran since the beginning of the war. The statement also revealed that more than 155 Iranian vessels have been damaged or destroyed during this period.
According to CENTCOM, the U.S.-led military campaign has been a response to the Iranian government’s aggressive actions, including attacks on oil tankers in the Persian Gulf and attempts to disrupt global maritime trade. CENTCOM emphasized that the objectives of the operation are to protect the free flow of international commerce, deter Iranian aggression, and ensure the safety of U.S. and coalition forces operating in the region.
The military command noted that the operation has been a highly successful and precision-guided effort, employing a range of sophisticated weaponry to neutralize the Iranian threat. CENTCOM officials credited the operation’s success to close coordination with regional partners and allies, as well as the effectiveness of U.S. military systems and personnel.
Furthermore, CENTCOM reported that Iranian attempts to replenish their lost capabilities have been met with U.S. forcefulness. As per the CENTCOM statement, over 155 Iranian-owned or -operated vessels have been damaged or destroyed since the start of the conflict. CENTCOM attributed these losses to a combination of U.S. surface and sub-surface naval operations, as well as airstrikes carried out by U.S. aircraft.
The operation’s impact on Iranian capabilities has also been substantial, according to CENTCOM. In addition to the over 13,000 targets struck, U.S. forces have degraded or destroyed Iranian ballistic missile capabilities and disrupted their command and control infrastructure. CENTCOM emphasized that these developments significantly undermine Iran’s ability to threaten U.S. and coalition interests in the region.
In response to criticisms of the high number of strikes, CENTCOM officials pointed out that the U.S. military has always prioritized precise targeting and minimizing civilian casualties. CENTCOM maintained that their strategy of precision-guided strikes has enabled U.S. forces to significantly degrade Iranian military capabilities while minimizing collateral damage.
CENTCOM’s update underscores the ongoing efforts to mitigate the Iranian threat in the region and reinforces the commitment of the U.S. military to ensuring the safety of international waters and the free flow of global commerce.