Iran Targets Civilians in Desperation as US Strikes Back | CENTCOM Update

The U.S. Military’s Central Command says Iran is increasingly targeting civilian sites in the ongoing conflict, a move described by its commander as “a sign of desperation.” In an interview with Iran International, a Farsi-language satellite network serving opposition audiences, U.S. Navy Adm. Brad Cooper detailed a shift in Iranian tactics.

“They’re operating in a sign of desperation,” Cooper said. “In the last couple of weeks, they’ve attacked civilian targets very deliberately, more than 300 times.” This escalation in attacks on civilian infrastructure comes as the conflict enters its fourth week, according to CBS News and the Associated Press.

Cooper also noted a decrease in the scale of Iranian attacks. “At the beginning of the conflict, you saw large volumes, in the dozens of drones and missiles,” he stated. “You no longer see that. It’s all one or two at a time.” This suggests a diminishing capacity, or a change in strategy, as Iran faces sustained pressure from U.S. And Israeli military action.

The U.S. Campaign against Iran is “ahead or on plan,” Cooper affirmed, focusing on the destruction of missile and drone manufacturing facilities, as well as other military infrastructure. “So it’s not just about the threat today. We’re eliminating the threat of the future, both in terms of the drones, the missiles, as well as the navy,” he explained.

Despite the ongoing military operations, Cooper cautioned against calls for immediate public uprising within Iran. He cited the continued risk to civilians due to the use of populated areas for launching attacks. “They’re launching missiles and drones from populated areas and you need to stay inside for right now,” he said. However, he indicated that a signal would be given when it is safe for the Iranian public to demonstrate, referencing previous statements by the President.

The conflict has already resulted in significant casualties, with more than 1,500 deaths reported in Iran, over 1,000 in Lebanon, 15 in Israel, and 13 U.S. Military personnel, alongside civilian deaths in the Gulf region. Millions have been displaced in both Lebanon and Iran, according to reports.

U.S. President Donald Trump has extended a deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and has indicated a willingness to negotiate a resolution to the conflict, claiming that Iranian officials have expressed interest in a deal. However, Iranian state television has denied any negotiations are taking place, asserting that Trump backed down following “Iran’s firm warning.” Trump has also stated the U.S. Intends to secure Iran’s enriched uranium and dismantle its nuclear program as part of any agreement.