Hegseth: Iran Must Choose Deal or Face Military Action
The United States is stepping up pressure on Iran and has not ruled out resuming military action if Tehran does not agree to a deal.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said at a Pentagon briefing that Washington believes Iran faces a choice between “a prosperous future and harsh consequences”. These, he said, could include a naval blockade and targeted attacks on infrastructure and the energy sector.
A blockade is expected to be a key instrument of pressure. US forces plan to monitor and, if necessary, stop vessels travelling to or from Iran.
General Dan Caine said the aim is to prevent material support from reaching Tehran.
He also warned that ships that do not comply with the blockade could face the use of force. The measures are intended to extend beyond Iranian waters into international space.