Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that Tuesday would witness the largest number of strikes against Iran thus far, emphasizing that ultimately, President Trump holds the authority to determine the final objectives in the Islamic Republic. He mentioned that it would be the most intense day of strikes inside Iran, elaborating on the number of fighters, bombers, and overall strikes involved. Chairman Dan Caine of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff also addressed the ongoing conflict, highlighting the significant reduction in Iran’s missile launches against Israel and Persian Gulf allies due to the U.S. and Israeli strikes.
Caine outlined three main military objectives: targeting missile and drone capabilities, striking the Iranian navy, and aiming at Iran’s military and industrial infrastructure. The day saw new attacks by Iran on Gulf Arab countries, accompanied by Israeli strikes in southern and eastern Lebanon, sparking concerns in the U.S. regarding prolonged engagement. Hegseth stressed the difference from past conflicts, stating that the current situation does not resemble past instances of extended nation-building under former administrations.
Regarding the Iranian regime’s response, Hegseth characterized Iranian leaders as desperate and scrambling, asserting that the U.S. and its allies are currently prevailing. The discussion included reports of Mojtaba Khamenei’s alleged injuries following his appointment as Iran’s new supreme leader after his father’s death. Seven American service members have lost their lives in the conflict.
President Trump expressed a sense of completion in the war while the Defense Department shared a video hinting at further action in its caption “We have Only Just Begun to Fight.” Hegseth underscored the significance of fight until unconditional surrender, indicating the determination to set terms and bring the enemy to submission. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi affirmed their readiness to continue missile attacks on Israel as necessary.
The potential control of the Strait of Hormuz by the U.S. if Iran obstructs the waterway was discussed by Trump, noting its impact on global oil supply and the consequent fluctuation in oil prices. Amid the uncertainties in the Middle East, oil prices have surged, reaching highs unseen since 2022 during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
