Pete Hegseth: US Ready to 'Negotiate With Bombs' in Iran Conflict

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced on Wednesday that American forces would conduct military strikes against Iran, escalating tensions amid stalled nuclear negotiations. Speaking after a meeting with US Central Command (CENTCOM) in Florida, Hegseth stated the attacks were intended to pressure Iran into accepting a nuclear deal, with President Donald Trump vowing retaliation following the downing of a US AH-64 Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz on Monday. The helicopter crew was safely recovered, but Trump accused Iran of aggression, declaring, 'We hit them hard yesterday and we're gonna hit them again hard today.'" "Iranian state media reported explosions in multiple locations, including Bandar Abbas, Qeshm, Gorgan, and Hengam, following the strikes. CENTCOM described the attacks as 'additional self-defense strikes' in response to Iran's 'continued aggression.' The US Department of War confirmed Hegseth reviewed operational plans with CENTCOM Commander Admiral Bradley Cooper before departing Florida, emphasizing the administration’s goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Trump reiterated that the proposed agreement would permanently prohibit Tehran from developing such capabilities." "Negotiations between Washington and Tehran remain focused on unresolved issues like uranium enrichment restrictions, nuclear facility oversight, and sanctions relief. Hegseth argued military pressure could compel Iran to return to talks, stating, 'President Trump is a dealmaker—the best in the world.' The US also highlighted its naval presence in the Strait of Hormuz under Project Freedom, claiming it protected the transit of approximately 100 million barrels of oil in recent weeks. Hegseth asserted, 'The United States of America controls the Strait of Hormuz,' underscoring its role in safeguarding global energy supplies.