US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that Iran was left with no viable options and was “humiliated,” claiming that these conditions forced Tehran to agree to a two-week ceasefire with the United States. Speaking during a Pentagon briefing, he asserted that Iran’s leadership had been significantly weakened and its military capabilities severely degraded, leaving it with little choice but to enter negotiations.
Hegseth described the ceasefire as a direct outcome of sustained military pressure, saying that Iran was “out of time and options” and had effectively been compelled to come to the negotiating table. He further claimed that the Iranian leadership recognised that reaching a deal was preferable to facing further consequences, framing the agreement as a result of US military dominance.
He also alleged that Iran’s leadership structure had been systematically targeted and weakened, adding that the ceasefire would ensure that Tehran would not be able to develop nuclear weapons. According to him, the United States now holds strategic control over the situation, reversing any leverage Iran may have previously had.
Highlighting the scale of military operations, Hegseth said that US forces had carried out extensive strikes under what he referred to as Operation Epic Fury, which began on February 28. He claimed that Iran’s defence infrastructure and military production capabilities had been significantly damaged, stating that the country could no longer effectively produce missiles, drones, or other advanced weapon systems.
He further stated that hundreds of strikes were conducted in a single night, targeting key facilities and infrastructure linked to Iran’s defence industry. According to his account, these operations resulted in widespread destruction of factories and production sites, severely limiting Iran’s ability to sustain its military operations.
Hegseth also indicated that the Strait of Hormuz had been reopened and suggested that US forces would maintain a continued presence in the region to ensure compliance with the ceasefire. He emphasised that while the ceasefire represents a pause in hostilities, US forces remain prepared to resume operations if necessary.
In addition, he made claims regarding the condition of Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, alleging that he had been injured during the conflict, though no further details were provided.
Echoing a cautious stance, Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine noted that while US military objectives had been achieved, the ceasefire should be viewed as temporary. He indicated that the situation remains fluid and that forces are on standby should hostilities resume.
The ceasefire itself was agreed upon following weeks of intense conflict that disrupted global energy supplies and drew in multiple countries across the region. While the agreement has paused direct confrontation between the United States and Iran, ongoing strikes in other areas, including Lebanon and parts of the Gulf, have raised doubts about its overall effectiveness and durability.
