US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has warned that Washington could take armed action against Iran if necessary, while saying US pressure on Tehran will continue. His remarks came amid rising tensions between the two countries.
Speaking to journalists in Wisconsin, Hegseth said the United States had not stopped its attacks against Iran. He also claimed that Washington had established full control over the Strait of Hormuz and that oil shipments had resumed.
The US defense chief also highlighted the impact of American economic sanctions on Iran. He said economic pressure was currently causing significant damage to Tehran and argued that Iran’s only option was to return to the negotiating table.
Hegseth’s comments come as Washington continues to increase pressure on Iran through economic and diplomatic measures. The United States has repeatedly linked sanctions relief to changes in Iran’s policies and a return to negotiations.
Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced new sanctions targeting Iran’s digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping sectors. He said the measures would further increase pressure on entities involved in dealings with Tehran.
Bessent warned that countries and companies conducting transactions with Iran could face direct US sanctions. The latest measures are part of Washington’s broader effort to restrict Iran’s access to international financial and commercial networks.
The US Treasury Department has also offered rewards of up to $10 million for information about five senior officials of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The developments signal continued US pressure on Iran, with the possibility of further action remaining on the table.
