US Warns Iran: Military Action Possible if Nuclear Deal Fails

Islamabad: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has warned that American forces are fully prepared to resume military operations if Iran refuses to reach a nuclear agreement.
Speaking at a press conference at the Pentagon alongside Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine, Hegseth said the United States is closely monitoring Iran’s activities and stressed that Tehran must make “wise decisions.” He emphasized that Iran cannot be allowed to possess nuclear weapons under any circumstances.
Hegseth stated that Washington is aware of Iran’s military asset movements and reaffirmed that the U.S. remains as strong as ever. He added that negotiations with Iran are ongoing, but warned that failure to reach a deal would leave military action on the table.
Addressing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, Hegseth dismissed Iran’s claims of controlling the vital shipping route, calling threats against commercial vessels “acts of piracy.” He said the U.S. Navy currently maintains control over maritime traffic in the area and will continue enforcement operations as needed.
He further noted that while Iran’s energy sector has not been completely destroyed, U.S. measures are significantly restricting its exports. The blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, he said, will remain in place for as long as necessary.
General Caine confirmed that the blockade applies to all vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports, regardless of nationality, and is being enforced in both Iranian territorial waters and international waters. He warned that any vessel attempting to assist Iran, including those linked to covert “dark fleet” oil shipments, would be tracked, stopped, and potentially seized if required.
“If the blockade is not respected, we will use force,” Caine said, adding that 13 vessels have already been turned back without further action.
Hegseth also expressed hope that Iran would agree to a deal, noting that Tehran appears inclined to maintain a ceasefire. He welcomed international cooperation in ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.