US Defence Secretary Confirms Intensified Strikes Against Iran

United States Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Thursday that Iran will face what he described as the 'largest strike package' to date. He stated that the ongoing conflict in the Gulf will conclude on terms favourable to the United States. During a briefing, Hegseth highlighted that the US military has targeted over 7,000 sites in Iran, emphasising that the current offensive operation is part of a broader strategy.

Hegseth remarked, 'Our capabilities continue to build, Iran’s continue to degrade.' He claimed that Iran's air defence systems have been significantly compromised. The strikes primarily aimed at Iran's military assets on Kharg Island, which he stated grants the US considerable influence over Iran’s future.

In a poignant moment, Hegseth spoke of a ceremony attended by both him and President Donald Trump, where they paid tribute to US soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict. Families of the fallen service members conveyed their hopes to the administration for a decisive conclusion to the conflict. Hegseth reiterated the commitment to honour their sacrifice, stating, 'Of course, we will finish this. We will honour their sacrifice.'

Addressing concerns about the potential for a prolonged conflict, Hegseth countered criticisms suggesting that the situation might devolve into a ‘forever war.' He asserted that such characterisations are inaccurate, maintaining that the objectives of the US have remained constant since the onset of hostilities.

The strategic goals outlined by Hegseth involve dismantling Iran's missile launch capabilities, degrading its defence infrastructure, neutralising its naval capabilities, and preventing the country from developing nuclear weapons. He also highlighted a significant reduction in Iranian military capabilities, claiming a 90% decrease in ballistic missile and drone attacks directed at US forces since the conflict's inception.

Further details released by Hegseth indicated that the US has inflicted damage on at least 120 Iranian naval vessels and rendered its surface fleet ineffective, with all 11 submarines reportedly neutralised. He characterised the positions of senior Iranian commanders as increasingly untenable, suggesting that such roles are now viewed as particularly risky.

In comparing the Iranian regime to militant groups such as Hamas, Hegseth accused Iran of heavily investing in military capabilities, including tunnels and missile technology. He asserted that US military forces are strategically targeting these resources with unprecedented precision and effectiveness.

Emphasising the US’ commitment to its mission, Hegseth remarked, 'We will finish this. We will honour their sacrifice.'

Hegseth addressed a report from The Washington Post, which indicated that the Pentagon is seeking additional funding from the White House, with estimates of around $200 billion. He underscored the necessity of proper funding for military operations, stating, 'It takes money to kill bad guys.'

When questioned about timelines for achieving the objectives set by President Trump regarding Iran, Hegseth refrained from providing a specific timeframe but reaffirmed that operations are proceeding as planned. Hegseth praised Israel as a vital ally from the beginning of the conflict, noting that other Gulf states have also bolstered their cooperation with the United States during the war.

Concluding his remarks, Hegseth described Iran's ongoing pursuit of nuclear capabilities as a significant threat not just regionally but also to global security, stating it poses a danger to the United States, freedom, and civilisation itself. He urged a unified stance towards supporting the US leadership in the conflict, calling for gratitude towards President Trump for his role in managing the crisis.