At the Shangri-La Dialogue security summit in Singapore, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared that Washington remains ready to initiate new military strikes against Iran should ongoing diplomatic talks fail to yield an agreement. He emphasized that the United States has the necessary resources and capabilities to sustain such operations if required.
Hegseth highlighted that the US military is fully prepared to recommence attacks if diplomatic efforts break down, stating, “Our ability to resume operations, if necessary, remains intact.” He pointed to the extensive American military stockpiles and global deployments that place the country in a strong strategic position.
These remarks come amid continued negotiations between US and Iranian officials, who are striving to resolve critical disagreements that have hindered a broader settlement aimed at ending months of conflict and easing regional tensions.
Meanwhile, Hegseth dismissed claims that the US focus on the Middle East has diminished its commitment to the Asia-Pacific region. He asserted that the United States is capable of addressing multiple security challenges simultaneously and is rapidly expanding its defense production capacity.
“We can handle more than one challenge at a time,” he said, noting significant increases in weapons and munitions manufacturing to support military operations across various regions.
The Pentagon chief also affirmed that President Donald Trump remains dedicated to achieving a diplomatic resolution, seeking an agreement that would prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
In a significant development, Trump announced on Friday that he would hold a meeting in a secure White House location to make a final decision on a proposed framework designed to end the Iran conflict. This proposal includes extending the ceasefire, which has been in place since early April, for an additional 60 days to allow negotiators more time to pursue a permanent settlement.
The conflict, initiated by the United States and Israel on February 28, has caused thousands of deaths, primarily in Iran and Lebanon, while also disrupting global energy markets. Concerns over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have contributed to rising energy prices and increased economic uncertainty worldwide.
