US to Launch Most Intense Day of Strikes Against Iran

Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth has stated that the US is focused on three main objectives in its conflict with Iran: neutralizing Tehran’s missile capabilities, destroying its navy, and permanently denying Iran nuclear weapons. Hegseth told reporters on Tuesday that the US will continue to pursue these objectives “until the enemy is totally and decisively defeated.”

The Pentagon chief acknowledged that Israel has its own goals for the conflict, but emphasized that the US remains focused on its specific objectives. Hegseth stated that the attack on Iranian energy infrastructure by Israel was not necessarily a US objective.

US President Donald Trump has been involved in the decision-making process regarding the war effort, and Hegseth noted that he controls the pace of the conflict. The Pentagon chief declined to provide a timeline for when the war would end, stating that this decision lies with the president.

Iranian officials have responded to the US strikes on key nuclear facilities by launching missile and drone attacks against Israel and other regional targets. The Iranian military has also attacked oil facilities in Gulf countries and closed the Strait of Hormuz, a major shipping lane for the energy trade.

US General Dan Caine stated that US forces are continuing to hunt and strike mine-laying vessels in the Gulf. Trump suggested last week that the US Navy may accompany oil vessels through the strait to ensure their safety, but Caine indicated that this decision has not been made.

Hegseth’s comments come as tensions between Iran and the US remain high. The Pentagon chief emphasized that the US will continue to pursue its objectives “until the enemy is totally and decisively defeated.”

Source: Al Jazeera