US can attack Iran if necessary, says Secretary of War
US keeps military option open
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has said Washington could launch another operation against Tehran if it becomes necessary.
Speaking to reporters in Wisconsin, Hegseth said American attacks against Iran had not been completely ruled out. He said the US could take further military action depending on developments.
The warning comes as Iran sanctions continue to put pressure on Tehran and increase uncertainty across the region.
Hegseth also said the United States has full control over the Strait of Hormuz and claimed that oil shipments through the important waterway have resumed.
Economic pressure increases
According to Hegseth, strong economic restrictions are causing serious damage to Iran.
He said the growing Iran economic pressure could push Tehran back to the negotiating table. Washington has increasingly relied on sanctions and other economic measures instead of immediately carrying out further attacks.
The latest US-Iran tensions have therefore developed on both military and economic fronts.
The US has continued expanding US sanctions Iran as part of its strategy to pressure the Iranian government.
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Mixed signals from Washington
Despite Hegseth’s warning, reports from US media suggest that another attack may not be expected immediately.
According to the reports, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has told several foreign ministers that further American attacks on Iran are currently unlikely.
Rubio reportedly said Washington is focusing on other ways to pressure Tehran, including a new sanctions campaign.
This suggests that the US Iran conflict could currently be entering a phase where economic pressure and diplomacy receive greater attention.
Strait of Hormuz remains important
The Strait of Hormuz remains a major concern because it is one of the world’s most important routes for oil transportation.
Any disruption could affect energy supplies and global markets. Hegseth’s claim that oil shipments have resumed is therefore significant for countries that depend on the route.
A renewed Iran military action could also create fresh concerns about the security of the waterway.
What happens next?
The situation remains difficult to predict. Washington is keeping its military options available while increasing economic pressure on Tehran.
The continuation of Iran sanctions could further test Iran’s economy and its willingness to negotiate.
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At the same time, the Iran economic pressure campaign could create another opportunity for diplomatic talks if both sides decide to avoid further escalation.
The future of the US Iran conflict may therefore depend on whether economic measures can achieve Washington’s goals without leading to another military confrontation.
