Washington: The United States pledged to protect the Strait of Hormuz and ensure uninterrupted global energy flows as tensions with Iran intensify, warning Tehran against underestimating American military strength.
In a CBS 60 Minutes interview, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth revealed US forces have crippled much of Iran's navy and stand ready to neutralize further threats to vital shipping lanes. "What was the Iranian Navy is largely no more ," Hegseth declared, stressing operations target any vessels endangering maritime security.
He emphasized proactive measures with superior American firepower to prevent disruptions and restore commercial confidence in the region. The administration anticipates manageable economic fallout, collaborating with allies and energy markets to cushion global impacts.
Hegseth portrayed the campaign as a decisive push to dismantle Iran's offensive capabilities against US troops, partners, and trade. Interpreting President Trump's call for Iran's unconditional surrender, he said victory means dictating terms until Tehran can no longer fight—a phase he described as just beginning with potential surges ahead.
On reports of Russian intelligence aid to Iran, Hegseth expressed confidence in US superiority: "We have the best intelligence in the world. We’re aware of who’s talking to who, why they’re talking to them." He refused to signal operational red lines, vowing to escalate as needed without endangering forces, while honouring any casualties without nation-building ambitions like past Iraq or Afghanistan wars.
(Inputs from IANS)