The key facts
- Hegseth said Iran must abandon its nuclear ambitions or face US military force
- He accused Tehran of a missile program and of funding Hezbollah and the Houthis
- The policy is presented as part of Trump's strategy to strengthen US influence in the Americas
The choice for Tehran
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Saturday that Iran faces a choice: abandon its 'nuclear ambitions' and reach a deal or face devastating military action. 'Iran will very quickly have a choice: give this up at the negotiating table or face the destruction that America is capable of delivering and will deliver swiftly, if necessary,' he told officer reserve cadets and recruits at the University of Tennessee.
Accusations against Tehran
Hegseth accused Tehran of building a large arsenal of conventional missiles to deter military action while simultaneously pursuing 'nuclear ambitions.' According to him, US military power is needed to force adversaries to the negotiating table. He also said that Iran 'funds proxies in Hezbollah, funds the Houthi proxies in Yemen,' adding that Washington sought to prevent attacks on American forces and shipping.
The context of policy in the Western Hemisphere
The Pentagon chief framed the policy toward Iran as part of President Donald Trump's broader efforts to restore American power, including fighting drug cartels and limiting the influence of Iran, China and Russia in Latin America. Touching on Venezuela, Hegseth said a US operation there would have 'consequences for generations,' calling the country a strategic partner and noting its oil resources. According to him, Washington seeks to push rivals out of the Western Hemisphere while strengthening its military presence and partnerships across the Americas.
