US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has warned that the United States is prepared to resume military strikes against Iran with “far greater firepower” if a ceasefire agreement is not reached under acceptable terms.
Speaking at a press briefing in Washington on Thursday, Hegseth said that the US forces are fully prepared for renewed operations, citing enhanced intelligence capabilities and upgraded strike readiness.
“We are reloading with more power than ever before and better intelligence,” he said, adding that US forces remain “locked and loaded” on what he described as Iran’s dual-use infrastructure, energy facilities, and remaining power generation assets. He stressed that the US would prefer not to take further military action if Tehran agrees to Washington’s conditions.
The defence secretary also confirmed that the US naval blockade on Iranian maritime activity will continue indefinitely and has now been expanded to cover a wider range of contraband goods. The list includes weapons, ammunition, nuclear materials, crude and refined petroleum products, as well as key industrial metals such as iron, steel and aluminium.
Hegseth further claimed that US intelligence is tracking Iranian military movements, suggesting Tehran may be repositioning assets during the current ceasefire period. “We are watching you,” he warned.
He also noted that Washington has received assurances that China will not supply arms to Iran during the ongoing standoff, expressing approval of the development.
US officials reiterated that pressure on Iran will continue, combining military readiness with economic and maritime restrictions. The administration of President Donald Trump has meanwhile expressed cautious optimism about reaching a broader agreement to end the conflict, while maintaining that sanctions and blockades will intensify if Iran resists US demands.
Military officials added that US forces remain on standby for rapid escalation, with naval units authorised to intercept vessels suspected of supporting Iran under the blockade framework.
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