No timeframe for ending US war against Iran, says Pete Hegseth
No timeframe for ending US war against Iran, says Pete Hegseth
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed on Thursday that the U.S. conflict with Iran has no set end date, while acknowledging potential requests for an additional $200bn in military funding. The ongoing US-Israeli campaign, which began three weeks prior, has expanded its scope, with attacks targeting critical infrastructure across the region.
US military campaign intensifies
As oil prices climb and public support for the president dwindles, Hegseth refused to outline a strategy for withdrawal. “We wouldn’t want to set a definitive timeframe,” he remarked, emphasizing that the mission remains aligned with the administration’s original goals. He also hinted that the president would ultimately determine when to pause operations.
“Today will be the largest strike package yet … death and destruction from above.”
Pentagon seeks additional funding
The military’s financial demands have surged, with the initial six-day phase costing nearly $13bn, according to reports. Hegseth noted the $200bn figure could shift, stating, “Obviously it takes money to kill bad guys.” He explained the request aims to secure adequate resources for both current and future operations.
Geographical expansion of strikes
Top military officer Gen Dan Caine, alongside Hegseth, highlighted the campaign’s broadening reach. Long-range attacks now target underground facilities and coastal missile sites, employing bunker-busting weapons. In the Gulf, A-10 aircraft are engaged in operations to clear the strait of Hormuz, while Apache helicopters strike militia groups in Iraq.
Media criticism and religious appeal
Hegseth accused the press of bias, calling them “dishonest and anti-Trump” for questioning the war’s progress. He claimed the media’s focus on costs and doubts about the campaign reflects a condition he termed “Trump derangement syndrome.” Concluding his remarks, he urged Americans to pray for troops, invoking a spiritual call: “Pray for our forces on bended knee with your family, in your schools, in your churches, in the name of Jesus Christ.”
The campaign’s objectives, as outlined by Hegseth, include dismantling Iran’s missile capabilities, weakening its defense industry, and preventing nuclear weapon acquisition. Despite the escalation, he insisted these goals remain “unchanged, on target and on plan.”
