Retired U.S. Generals and Strategists Hail Iranian Strike as a Landmark Operation
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Washington, March 2 (NationPress) Retired U.S. military leaders, national security experts, and prominent think tank representatives have labeled President Donald Trump’s "Operation Epic Fury" as a pivotal military operation, asserting that it has transformed deterrence strategies in the Middle East while significantly undermining Iran's governing body.
Retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg emphasized the extensive operational scale of the campaign. A detailed compilation of such remarks was published by the White House on Sunday.
"The execution of this operation, with the strikes being launched and the assets utilized, is truly remarkable… We’ve accomplished a commendable task. President Trump has performed admirably," Kellogg stated.
Retired Gen. Jack Keane described the initiative as intentional and expansive.
"This campaign is exceptionally comprehensive and well-conceived, and I have reviewed the specifics; it is nothing short of extraordinary," Keane remarked.
From a strategic perspective, Roger Zakheim, Director of the Ronald Reagan Institute, noted that the action would shift the regional equilibrium.
"This is strategic on every level… The safety of the United States has been enhanced due to the events of yesterday," Zakheim asserted, calling it "the most significant strategic military operation in nearly half a century."
Seth Cropsey, President of the Yorktown Institute, claimed that the strike focused on critical elements of Iranian authority.
"By targeting Iran's theocratic leaders, missile systems, and command-and-control infrastructure, the regime is left more vulnerable than ever," Cropsey commented. He further noted that this assault "opens pathways for the complete strategic degradation of Iran."
Mark Dubowitz, CEO of the Foundation for Defence of Democracies, stated that this action marked a departure from historical norms.
"No previous or future president would have dared to eliminate Khamenei, (Soleimani), and their lethal nuclear, missile, and terror capabilities. This is a matter of fact, not partisanship," Dubowitz remarked.
Miad Maleki, Senior Advisor at the Foundation for Defence of Democracies, characterized the operation as long overdue.
"President Trump is the first U.S. president to advocate for the Iranian populace and oppose this oppression. That requires bravery and historic foresight," Maleki stated.
The Wall Street Journal Editorial Board depicted the strike as a deterrent measure with wider consequences.
"The U.S.-Israeli offensive against Iran that commenced Saturday morning is a crucial act of deterrence against a regime recognized as the world's leading promoter of terrorism. While it entails risks, as all military actions do, it holds the potential to positively reshape the Middle East and foster a safer global environment," the board articulated.
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo framed the situation in grand terms.
"President Trump has acted to preserve nothing less than Western civilization," Pompeo declared.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett suggested that the message would resonate across the region.
"The key takeaway is to avoid provoking President Trump… I believe the entire region will be grateful afterward — and the world will be thankful — as the world is already a safer place compared to yesterday," Bennett expressed.
Commentator Hugh Hewitt characterized the president's address as prudent.
"A very composed yet resolute address from President Trump," Hewitt stated.