US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has warned that the United States is prepared to launch a major military strike against Iran if Tehran fails to reach an agreement with Washington, further raising tensions in the Middle East.

Speaking to reporters in Florida, Hegseth said the US has a decisive military plan in place and is ready to act if diplomatic efforts fail. He claimed that Iran has not demonstrated a serious commitment to negotiations and warned that key Iranian facilities could be targeted in future operations.

According to reports, Hegseth said President Donald Trump has already made it clear that Tehran must take negotiations seriously. He stressed that Iran still has an opportunity to reach an agreement but cautioned that refusing to do so could result in military action.

The US defense chief suggested that any future strikes would be powerful and clearly focused, although he did not disclose which Iranian sites could be targeted. He also claimed that many Iranian missiles fail to reach their intended targets.

Hegseth further asserted that the United States maintains control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz and said millions of barrels of oil have continued to pass through the vital waterway. However, he did not provide evidence to support the claim.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy routes, with a significant share of global oil shipments passing through it every day. Any disruption in the area could have major consequences for international energy markets and global trade.

Analysts warn that continued tensions between Washington and Tehran could increase regional instability, drive up oil prices, and create new challenges for the global economy.