00:01Hi, I'm Admiral Brad Cooper, Commander of U.S. Central Command.
00:05Earlier this week, I visited some of the more than 50,000 service members supporting operations across the Middle East,
00:12including our mission in the Strait of Hormuz.
00:14When I flew over the Strait, I saw dozens of commercial vessels transiting, all types, cargo, crude oil, liquid natural
00:23gas, or LNG.
00:24And I also saw our U.S. assets in the air and on the water, including a squadron of advanced
00:31sea drones that were on patrol supporting a defensive layer.
00:35Here's what I didn't see. I didn't see the IRGC out there at all.
00:40They patrolled the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters for decades, harassing and threatening and seizing commercial vessels at will.
00:49But they were not out there because Iran's Navy is all at the bottom of the sea.
00:53After we sank Iran's Navy earlier this year, we also successfully cleared the Strait's internationally recognized primary transit routes of
01:02Iranian sea mines.
01:03And today, U.S. forces remain highly vigilant and present to ensure that all primary transit routes in the Strait
01:11of Hormuz remain free and clear.
01:13This week, we reached a significant milestone, having now assisted Gulf partners in exporting more than 1.5 billion barrels
01:22of crude oil since summer.
01:25U.S. forces have been laser focused in this effort in coordination with regional partners, other U.S. government teammates,
01:32and the shipping industry.
01:33Meanwhile, we've prevented Iran from exporting any oil because of the ironclad blockade on Iranian ports.
01:41I strongly believe that every success begins and ends with our people, and our incredible men and women in uniform
01:48represent the very best.
01:50During my trip, I met with teams who executed the mine clearance mission in the Strait of Hormuz and who
01:56continue to provide coordinated protection for commercial shipping as we strictly enforce the ongoing blockade.
02:02Since day one, America's sons and daughters serving in the Middle East have shown relentless commitment, dedication, and courage.
02:10It's been the honor of a lifetime to serve alongside them and recognize them for their tremendous accomplishments on behalf
02:17of the nation.
02:18As their commander, I could not be prouder.
02:20And I know that the families, friends, loved ones, and the American people back home share in this pride.
02:26To all our service members, keep up the great work. Godspeed.
02:30Thanks so much.
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