Top US military officials stated Thursday that American forces in the Middle East are prepared to immediately restart combat operations if Iran does not agree to a peace deal. This readiness is part of a campaign to pressure Tehran into signing an agreement.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told a Pentagon briefing, "You, Iran, can choose a prosperous future... But if Iran chooses poorly, then they will have a blockade and bombs dropping on infrastructure, power and energy." The Trump administration expressed optimism about reaching a deal while warning of increased economic pressure against Tehran if it remains defiant.
General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, confirmed that US forces are "ready to resume major combat operations at literally a moment's notice." He added that US Navy ships would intercept and warn any vessel attempting to break the blockade, with force used if warnings are not heeded. Enforcement will occur in Iran's territorial seas and international waters.