US ready to resume war if Iran rejects deal: Defence Secretary

The United States is prepared to resume military action if Iran refuses to agree to a deal, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said, issuing a stark warning amid heightened tensions.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Pentagon, Hegseth urged Iran to choose a “prosperous future,” saying, “You have a golden opportunity. We hope you choose that path for the Iranian people.”

However, he warned that failure to reach an agreement would prompt renewed pressure, including potential strikes on infrastructure, electricity and energy sectors.

Addressing Iran’s leadership, Hegseth described the situation as an “asymmetric conflict” and said Washington is closely monitoring Tehran’s military movements.

As part of efforts to push Iran toward a deal, US forces are intensifying operations to intercept vessels heading to and from Iran, officials said.

Separately, Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said US forces are ready to launch operations “at a moment’s notice.”

Earlier, President Donald Trump expressed optimism about reaching a deal to end the conflict but warned that economic pressure on Iran would increase if negotiations fail.