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The Pentagon announced the formation of a new task force meant to keep Iran from transporting weapons via the ground, despite President Donald Trump’s repeated assurances that Iran’s military capabilities have been “destroyed.”
A day after the State Department announced a $20 million reward for information on Iran’s nuclear program, including “possible relocation” for those who share tips, the Pentagon is also indicating the Iran war is far from over.
Task Force Iron Gate will include 20 civilians and military personnel in Tampa, Florida, U.S. Central Command announced Saturday.
From Florida, the group is expected to be able to “monitor, detect and disrupt,” any attempt by Iran to move weapons or “other materials” via the ground.
Centcom said in a news release:
On Nov. 7, the commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) directed the establishment of a task force that will support ongoing U.S. government efforts to prevent Iran from using ground routes to transport advanced weapons and other materials.
Adm. Brad Cooper has directed the formation of Task Force Iron Gate, an internal staff of approximately 20 civilian and military personnel based in Tampa, Florida. The new CENTCOM team will coordinate with other U.S. government agencies on preventing the movement of advanced weapons systems, dual-use technologies, sanctioned materials, and illegal revenue streams across Iran’s land borders and the Caspian Sea.
“The establishment of Task Force Iron Gate reinforces the success of our ironclad blockade against Iran at sea,” said Cooper. “Strengthening CENTCOM’s collaboration with U.S. interagency partners will further constrain Iran’s ability to finance terrorism, rebuild weapons factories, and replenish their military.”
In recent months, America’s naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting more than $25 billion in crude oil. Strict enforcement at sea continues against all ships entering or departing Iranian ports.
News of the $20 million reward from the State Department sparked widespread criticism online, with many pointing out the seemingly contradictory messages being sent by Trump and his administration.
The president has insisted at nearly every opportunity that Iran’s military has been decimated, and once boasted the United States had “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
On Feb. 28 the United States and Israel launched joint airstrikes on Iran in a conflict that has now dragged on for more than eight. months and was so unpopular it prompted voters to hand the GOP enormous losses in this week’s midterm elections.
The post Pentagon Announces Florida-based Task Force to Monitor Iran’s Borders a Day After Trump Admin Offers $20 Million Reward first appeared on Mediaite.
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