CENTCOM commander warns soldiers it could take away phones over operational security concerns

United States Central Command officials warned recently it could take phones away from service members over concerns Iran is using photos and videos posted online to assess where its strikes landed and potentially improve follow-up attacks.

The development comes after Iran launched surprise attacks on American troops in the Middle East this week. Service members stationed in Jordan were notified that their phones could be confiscated because of operational security concerns, sources told Fox News and Reuters on Wednesday.

Another source told Reuters that the military was thinking of a more broad order but indicated the decision was not final.

"The message is a general reminder to our service members on the importance of maintaining operational security," CENTCOM spokesperson Capt. Tim Hawkins told Fox News. "This is one of many opportunities Admiral [Brad] Cooper has used to convey operational priorities."

The move could put a damper on troops' morale given that service members use the devices to communicate with loved ones back home. But the message warned that online posts were giving Iran near-real-time information about whether its missile and drone attacks had succeeded.

"The direct, unavoidable cost of this open-source intelligence could be measured in the lives of American service members," Cooper wrote, according to Reuters.

Cellphone rules already vary depending on the military service and a service member's assignment. Those in classified areas and on high-risk missions are already barred from accessing their phones on duty, while some Navy sailors do not have access to good wireless service. 

Service members at well-established overseas bases, however, can often retain use of their phones.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.