According to a report by AP News on March 27, 2026, CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper made the statement following the reported killing of IRGC-N commander Admiral Alireza Tangsiri in an Israeli airstrike, describing the development as a major turning point in regional security dynamics.
Tangsiri had led the IRGC-N for eight years and was previously sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury in 2019 as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist, with additional sanctions imposed in 2024 over alleged involvement in drone development and maritime attacks.
Admiral Cooper claimed that Iranian naval capabilities have been significantly degraded, stating that a large portion of the IRGC-N fleet has been neutralized during ongoing operations.
“During Operation Epic Fury, 92 percent of the Iranian Navy’s large ships have been neutralized,” Cooper said, adding that the IRGC-N is now facing what he described as an irreversible decline in operational strength.
He further warned that U.S. military operations would continue, urging IRGC-N personnel to step away from their roles to avoid becoming targets in future strikes.
“We urge all personnel serving in the IRGC-N to abandon their posts and return home immediately to avoid further risk of injury or death,” he stated.
CENTCOM officials confirmed that targeted operations would persist until the IRGC-N’s maritime capabilities are significantly reduced, particularly in areas affecting international shipping lanes.
Military analysts suggest that the reported loss of senior leadership could further disrupt coordination within Iran’s naval forces, though Iranian authorities have not publicly confirmed or responded to the claims.
The situation continues to heighten tensions in the Middle East, with observers warning of possible further escalation if retaliatory actions intensify in the coming days.
