Pete Hegseth has stated that the coming days in the ongoing conflict involving Iran will be critical, describing the period ahead as “decisive.” Speaking at a Pentagon news conference on Tuesday, he emphasized that while diplomatic efforts are progressing, military options remain firmly on the table.
Hegseth declined to rule out the potential deployment of U.S. ground troops, stressing that revealing operational plans could undermine strategic advantage. He noted that decisions on such actions would ultimately depend on directives from Donald Trump and evolving conditions on the ground. According to him, maintaining uncertainty is a key element in wartime strategy.
Despite the ongoing military campaign, Hegseth indicated that negotiations aimed at ending the conflict are actively underway and showing signs of momentum. He described the talks as “real” and “gaining strength,” suggesting that a diplomatic resolution remains possible even as hostilities continue.
The defense secretary also disclosed that he recently made an unannounced visit to U.S. forces stationed in the Middle East. The trip, he explained, was kept confidential for security reasons to avoid exposing troop locations. During the visit, he commended the personnel for their professionalism and dedication, describing the experience as an honor.
Joining him at the briefing, senior U.S. military official Dan Caine outlined the scale of ongoing operations. He revealed that American forces have carried out strikes on more than 11,000 targets, focusing on degrading Iran’s ballistic missile and drone capabilities. Efforts are also concentrated on disrupting supply chains that support these weapons systems.
Additionally, U.S. forces are maintaining pressure on Iran’s naval operations, targeting its mine-laying capabilities and other maritime assets. According to officials, these actions are part of a broader strategy to assert dominance and limit Iran’s military reach in the region as the conflict continues to unfold.
