US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has warned that Washington is prepared to resume military Strikes against Iran if ongoing diplomatic efforts fail to produce an agreement.
Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore, Hegseth said negotiations between the United States and Iran were continuing. However, he stressed that the US military remained ready to act if talks broke down.
According to Hegseth, American negotiators are still working with Iranian officials to overcome major differences that have prevented a final agreement. Despite the ongoing discussions, he made it clear that military options remain available.
He stated that the United States has the capability to restart Strikes if necessary and said current military resources are sufficient to support operations in multiple regions.
Hegseth also said President Donald Trump remains committed to securing a strong agreement with Iran. He described Trump as patient but determined to ensure that any future deal prevents Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
The comments came shortly after Trump announced plans to meet senior advisers at the White House to review a proposal aimed at ending the conflict with Iran. The proposal would reportedly extend an existing ceasefire for another 60 days. The extension would give negotiators additional time to pursue a long-term settlement.
The ongoing conflict has had serious regional and global consequences. Since the war began on February 28, thousands of people have reportedly been killed, mainly in Iran and Lebanon.
The conflict has also affected the global economy. Energy prices increased significantly after disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
Despite concerns about the Middle East situation, Hegseth rejected suggestions that the conflict could distract Washington from its priorities in the Asia-Pacific region. He said the United States has the resources to manage multiple security challenges at the same time.
Addressing military leaders and diplomats at the conference, Hegseth said the Asia-Pacific region remains a key focus for US policy. He added that Washington is expanding weapons production and strengthening its defence industry to support future operations.
The defence secretary also urged US allies in Asia to increase military spending. He warned about China’s growing military capabilities and called on partner nations to contribute more toward regional security.
Hegseth said the United States expects allies to increase defence spending to 3.5 percent of their gross domestic product. He noted that Washington has committed a $1.5 trillion investment in its own military this year.
While discussing China, Hegseth acknowledged that relations between Washington and Beijing have improved in recent years. He said military communication channels remain open and help reduce tensions between the two countries.
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At the same time, he emphasized that the United States remains prepared for future challenges. His remarks underscored Washington’s position that diplomacy remains the preferred path, but military Strikes remain an option if negotiations with Iran fail.
