Senator Roger Wicker, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, led a hearing on May 15 to examine the current posture of United States Central Command and United States Africa Command as they address ongoing operations in the Middle East, challenges from Iran, and increasing competition from China and Russia in Africa.
The hearing featured testimony from Admiral Charles B. Cooper II, Commander of U.S. Central Command, and General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, Commander of U.S. Africa Command. Wicker said the session followed a classified briefing with both commanders.
In his opening remarks, Wicker said it is important to sustain pressure on Iran and counter threats posed by terrorist organizations as well as strategic competitors such as China and Russia across both regions. He also highlighted recent military actions: “Throughout Operation Epic Fury, Admiral Cooper commanded our highly trained and courageous men and women in uniform as they executed an exceptional military campaign. That campaign has rendered the Islamic Republic of Iran a shadow of its former self.” Wicker added that losses have occurred during these operations: “We continue to honor the memory of the fourteen service members who lost their lives in this campaign, as well as the approximately [300] service members who have been injured.”
Wicker discussed Iran’s long-standing hostility toward the United States since 1979: “Since 1979, Iran’s clerical regime has chosen to make the United States its number-one enemy… Its entire foreign policy revolves around killing others rather than building for its people.” He commended President Trump for taking action against Iran: “I commend President Trump for recognizing that the Iranian regime cannot be appeased and for directing action to defeat this threat.” Wicker also called attention to resource needs: “I look forward to Admiral Cooper sharing his assessment of how close we are to destroying Iran’s military capabilities… I would also like to hear what he needs from Congress to ensure our men and women in uniform have what they need to finish the job.”
Turning focus toward Africa, Wicker said strategic competition there is intensifying due to activities by China and Russia: “China is leveraging economic coercion, debt diplomacy, and military basing… Through its mercenaries… Russia is destabilizing fragile states.” He asked General Anderson for updates on these issues.
Wicker concluded by emphasizing Africa’s growing importance for American security interests: “Africa is becoming the epicenter of global terrorism… These groups remain intent on killing Americans around the world.” He stated that dedicated resources are needed so U.S. forces can address threats effectively.
Wicker’s office assists Mississippians with casework involving federal agencies such as veterans affairs or Social Security; he previously represented Mississippi’s First Congressional District in Congress; he earned degrees from University of Mississippi; served in student leadership roles at Ole Miss; began public service early; all according to the official website.
