Hegseth: US Ready to Strike Iran if No Deal Reached

Speaking Saturday at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Hegseth made clear that American military readiness has not diminished during the diplomatic process, according to New York Post.

Our ability to recommence if necessary, we are more than capable, the defense chief stated, adding that U.S. stockpiles both in the region and globally are more than adequate for resumed operations.

Hegseth used Asia’s premier defense forum to reassure allies that American engagement in the Iran conflict has not compromised U.S. commitments to the Asia-Pacific region. He emphasized that the Pentagon is capable of managing multiple theaters simultaneously while dramatically expanding munitions production.

The defense secretary revealed that the U.S. is supercharging its defense industrial base to build two, three, or even four times current munitions levels in the near future, ensuring all operational plans worldwide remain properly funded.

On the diplomatic front, Hegseth characterized President Trump as patient and seeking what he called a great deal that would permanently prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

White House Weighs Ceasefire Extension

President Trump indicated Friday that he would convene a secure White House meeting to make a final determination on a proposal that would extend the current early-April truce for an additional 60 days, as New York Post reports. The extension would provide negotiators additional time to craft a permanent resolution to the conflict.

The military campaign launched jointly by the United States and Israel on February 28 has resulted in thousands of deaths, primarily in Iran and Lebanon. The conflict has also inflicted significant economic damage globally by driving energy prices sharply higher after Iran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping.

With information from New York Post