U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said Iran has an opportunity to voluntarily abandon its nuclear program, warning that Washington could resort to force if Tehran does not comply.
Speaking to reporters, Hegseth said Iran now has an opportunity to make a decision regarding its nuclear program “in the way it chooses, without any pressure,” or face what he described as “the hard way.”
Hegseth reaffirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump remains determined to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, stressing that Tehran faces a choice between abandoning its nuclear ambitions and facing further U.S. measures.
Military Options Available to Trump
Hegseth declined to confirm whether the United States plans to deploy an additional aircraft carrier to the region, saying his responsibility is to provide President Trump with the widest possible range of military options.
Asked whether Washington has evidence that Iran is attempting to rebuild its missile capabilities, Hegseth said the United States is monitoring developments “in real time.”
Hegseth: Iran Does Not Control the Strait of Hormuz
Hegseth described the U.S. blockade as a “key tool” in Washington’s pressure campaign against Iran, while addressing disputes related to the Strait of Hormuz.
He said Iran was attempting to use issues surrounding the strait as leverage, adding that Tehran does not control the waterway and asserting that the United States does.
Asked whether the conflict could end through a military solution, Hegseth said the crisis could be resolved “in multiple ways,” noting that Trump has repeatedly offered Iran an opportunity to reach an agreement through negotiations.
Hegseth concluded by saying Iran must make what he described as “the right choice,” warning that if Tehran does not respond, President Trump will have all the options he needs.
The remarks come amid continued tensions and escalation in the region, as Washington maintains pressure on Tehran over its nuclear program and military capabilities.
