CENTCOM chief says U.S. forces remain ready after ‘generational’ defeat of Iran despite fragile ceasefire [VIDEO]

U.S. Navy Admiral Brad Cooper said U.S. troops continue to maintain a presence in the region. “We remain present, we remain vigilant and we remain ready if called,” he said in a video message.

More than 50,000 U.S. service members are currently stationed across the Middle East. The deployment follows the conclusion of large-scale combat operations that began on February 28.

Cooper described the outcome of the campaign as a major shift in regional military dynamics. He said Iran “has suffered a generational military defeat” as a result of the operations conducted by U.S. and Israeli forces.

“We set out to dismantle the Iranian regime’s ability to project power beyond its own borders, and we clearly accomplished this task,” Cooper said. He added that Iran’s conventional military capability “has been eliminated.”

U.S. officials have described the campaign as a decisive outcome. Donald Trump said the United States had achieved a “total and complete victory” following the ceasefire agreement.

Pete Hegseth also characterized the result as an “overwhelming victory” over Iran. These statements came as the ceasefire took effect earlier in the week.

Despite the ceasefire, senior military leaders cautioned that the situation remains uncertain. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the military “remains ready if ordered or called upon to resume combat operations.”

Update from CENTCOM Commander on Operation Epic Fury: pic.twitter.com/CUzaSmbZM3

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 9, 2026

The ceasefire remained in place as of Thursday but was described as fragile. Ongoing regional tensions, including Israeli strikes in Lebanon and Iran’s position on the Strait of Hormuz, have raised concerns about its durability.

Operation Epic Fury resulted in casualties among U.S. forces. According to Centcom, 13 service members were killed and at least 381 were wounded during the campaign.

Officials said the military remains focused on maintaining readiness and stability in the region. The presence of U.S. forces reflects continued monitoring of developments following the ceasefire.