US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has said Iran still has an opportunity to return to the negotiating table with wisdom, though time is no longer in its favour.
Speaking at the Pentagon alongside Dan Caine, he stated that pressure and restrictions against Iran would continue for as long as deemed necessary. He added that the United States faces no shortage of energy resources and would continue all possible measures to safeguard its interests.
Hegseth claimed that Washington holds control over the Strait of Hormuz, saying no vessel can pass through without its permission. He also accused Iran of acting like pirates by opening fire on various ships.
He added that the US forces have seized several maritime vessels and further operations are under way. He said the US president had also ordered the destruction of boats and vessels laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz.
He said that Europe and Asia had benefited from American security for decades, but the era of free advantage was over and allies must now fulfil their own responsibilities.
Hegseth made it clear that Washington’s objective is to ensure Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons, adding that it would be better for Iran to accept what he described as a “good deal”.
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