The United States has warned that it is prepared to resume military action against Iran if ongoing negotiations fail to produce a nuclear agreement, as tensions remain high despite continued diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.
Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue security summit in Singapore, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Pentagon remains fully prepared for renewed operations if directed by President Donald Trump. He stressed that American military stockpiles and operational capabilities remain strong both in the Middle East and globally.
"Our ability to recommence if necessary... we are more than capable," Hegseth said, underlining that the US military is ready should diplomacy fail to bridge key differences in the negotiations.
The warning comes as Washington and Tehran continue discussions aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons and reducing regional tensions. The talks follow months of conflict involving US, Israeli and Iranian military actions that have disrupted stability in the region and affected global energy markets.
President Trump has repeatedly stated that the United States will not allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon and has indicated that military action remains an option if negotiations break down. At the same time, US officials have maintained that diplomacy remains the preferred path to resolving the standoff.
Recent negotiations have focused on issues including Iran's nuclear programme, sanctions relief, regional security concerns and the reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments. Despite signs of progress, significant disagreements remain between the two sides.
The Pentagon's latest remarks signal that while diplomatic channels remain open, Washington is keeping military options on the table as pressure continues to mount on Tehran to reach an agreement.
