Pentagon Chief Warns US Ready To Resume Strikes On Iran If Talks Fail

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated on Saturday at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore that the United States is prepared to resume military strikes against Iran if negotiations fail to reach an agreement. Hegseth emphasized that the US maintains full operational capability, with stockpiles ready for potential action both in the region and globally. Negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue as both sides attempt to resolve key disputes preventing a deal to end months of conflict. Hegseth dismissed suggestions that the US had shifted focus from the Asia-Pacific region, noting that the defense industrial base is expanding production of munitions to support global operations. President Donald Trump remains committed to diplomacy, according to Hegseth, describing Trump as 'patient' and seeking a 'great deal' to ensure Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon. On Friday, Trump announced plans to meet in a secure White House room to make a final decision on a proposal extending a 60-day truce, first established in April, to allow further negotiations for a permanent settlement. The conflict, initiated by the US and Israel on February 28, has resulted in thousands of deaths, primarily in Iran and Lebanon. It has also disrupted global energy markets after Iran partially closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for global oil supplies.