Conflict will end on American terms, says US Defence Secy Pete Hegseth as Iran offensive intensified, 7,000 targets hit

PTC Web Desk:  US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has said that Iran will face even stronger military action, describing the latest offensive as one of the “largest strike packages” carried out so far. He said the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region is progressing according to Washington’s strategy and will conclude on American terms.

Speaking at a press briefing, Hegseth said US forces had already targeted more than 7,000 sites across Iran. He claimed that Tehran’s military strength was weakening steadily, particularly its air defence systems, which he said had been significantly degraded.

Highlighting recent operations, Hegseth noted that strikes near Kharg Island had given the US a strategic edge over key Iranian infrastructure.

Hegseth began by paying tribute to US soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict. He said he and President Donald Trump attended the return of their remains, adding that grieving families urged the administration to continue the mission until its goals are fully achieved. “We will ensure their sacrifice is honoured by completing what we started,” he said.

Responding to concerns about a prolonged conflict, Hegseth criticised sections of the media for portraying the war as never-ending. He insisted that the operation is focused, controlled and far from becoming a “forever war.”

According to Hegseth, US objectives have remained consistent since the beginning of the campaign. These include dismantling Iran’s missile systems, weakening its defence industry, neutralising naval capabilities, and preventing it from acquiring nuclear weapons.

He also claimed that attacks by Iran using ballistic missiles and drones have dropped sharply by nearly 90% since the US began its operations.

Providing further details, Hegseth said US strikes had either damaged or destroyed around 120 Iranian naval vessels. He added that Iran’s surface fleet was no longer operationally significant and that its submarine capabilities had been severely impacted.

In a sharp remark, Hegseth described senior positions in Iran’s military as increasingly risky, calling them “temporary roles” due to the ongoing targeting of leadership structures.

He accused Tehran of investing heavily in military infrastructure similar to groups like Hamas, including tunnels, missiles, and drones, all of which are being systematically targeted by US forces.

Addressing reports by The Washington Post about additional war funding, Hegseth acknowledged that financial requirements could increase. He stressed that adequate resources are essential to sustain military operations. “It takes significant funding to carry out such missions effectively,” he said.

Hegseth declined to provide a clear timeline for the end of the conflict but maintained that operations are progressing as planned. He praised Israel as a strong ally and noted increased support from Gulf nations.

He concluded by stating that Iran’s continued pursuit of nuclear capabilities poses a broader global threat, not just a regional concern.