The United States on Thursday issued a stark warning to Iran, signalling that its energy infrastructure could be targeted if Tehran fails to reach an agreement, even as a separate ceasefire was announced between Israel and Lebanon.
Speaking at a Pentagon briefing, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said American forces were fully prepared to escalate beyond the current naval blockade. He warned that critical sectors, including power generation and energy facilities, could come under attack if Iran "chooses poorly."
"We are locked and loaded on your critical dual-use infrastructure... and on your energy industry," Hegseth said, adding that while Washington prefers diplomacy, military options remain ready. "We'd rather not have to do it, but we're prepared to act at the command of our President."
Hegseth was joined by Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Bradley Cooper, who oversees US military operations in the Middle East.
Naval Blockade and Rising Pressure
The warning comes amid an ongoing US naval blockade targeting Iran's ports and coastline, part of a broader pressure campaign following recent combat operations under "Operation Epic Fury."
Hegseth said the blockade was already constraining Iran's economic lifelines, particularly its energy exports.
"Your energy is not moving and will not move—and we can sustain this indefinitely," he said, describing the blockade as a measured alternative to direct military strikes. However, he made clear that escalation remains on the table if negotiations fail.
Military officials emphasised that US forces remain on high alert despite a temporary pause in large-scale combat. Caine stated that the joint force is prepared "to resume major combat operations at literally a moment's notice."
The Pentagon also claimed that Iran's command and control capabilities have been significantly degraded in recent operations, with Hegseth describing them as "the worst they've ever been," though he noted that Tehran still has incentives to avoid further conflict.
Meanwhile, Cooper said US forces are using the ceasefire window to enhance readiness. "We're rearming, retooling, and adjusting our tactics," he said, adding that troops remain "highly motivated."
He also highlighted coordination with regional allies, including Gulf states and Israel, calling them "exceptional teammates" in joint defence efforts.
Israel–Lebanon Ceasefire
In a parallel development, US President Donald Trump announced a 10-day ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon.
According to Trump, the truce was finalised after discussions with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The ceasefire is set to begin at 5 p.m. EST and marks the first formal engagement between the two countries in 34 years.
In a statement, Trump said he had directed Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to work with both sides toward a lasting peace agreement.
Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah also confirmed the ceasefire.
