CENTCOM Chief Warns Troops Not to Share Video Iran Could Use to Attack US Base

DOK U.S. Central Command

JAKARTA - The head of the US Central Command (US Central Command) warned his troops that the online distribution of mobile phone videos could help Iran attack US bases.

This was conveyed by a source who knew the problem to CNN.

In a July 28 letter obtained by Reuters, Admiral Brad Cooper said cellphone footage shared online and in the news allowed Iran to assess the success of their attacks "almost in real time."

The warning comes after four US soldiers were killed in an Iranian attack in mid-July.

According to Reuters - and confirmed by sources - Cooper warned in the letter that the impact could be the loss of the lives of American military personnel and civilians who are targets in the Gulf region countries.

US Central Command spokesman Captain Tim Hawkins said the message was a general reminder to personnel about the importance of maintaining operational security.

"This is one of the many opportunities that Admiral Cooper uses to convey operational priorities," he said.