US Defense Sec: Mission Focused On Iran’s Missiles, Naval Forces And Nuclear Ambitions
US defence chief says mission aims to destroy Iran’s missiles, navy and block nuclear ambitions, not nation‑building.
The United States has pledged to “finish” its ongoing military campaign against Iran, focusing on neutralizing Tehran’s missile systems, naval forces, and nuclear ambitions, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Monday. The announcement comes as the conflict escalates across the Middle East following recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.
Hegseth emphasized that the U.S. did not initiate the conflict but is committed to achieving its objectives under President Donald Trump. The operation, named Epic Fury, is intended to strike Iran’s military capabilities decisively, while avoiding broader engagement or prolonged occupation. Hegseth stressed that the campaign is limited in scope and not aimed at democracy-building or regime change.
Speaking from the Pentagon, the defence secretary outlined that the U.S. mission is narrowly focused on “destroying Iran’s missiles, crippling its navy, and preventing nuclear weapon development.” He described the strikes as targeted, overwhelming, and unapologetic, while distinguishing the operation from past Middle Eastern conflicts that became prolonged nation-building efforts.
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The conflict has already resulted in casualties, including four U.S. service members, and Hegseth acknowledged that additional losses are likely. He emphasized that while the military campaign comes at a human cost, it is designed to achieve clear, strategic objectives without becoming an open-ended war.
The broader context of the conflict includes Iranian retaliatory strikes on Israel, Gulf states, and a British military base in Cyprus. These developments have intensified concerns over regional instability, as both sides appear prepared for continued escalation. Hegseth stressed that U.S. actions are defensive and focused on protecting American and allied interests.
Despite the military intensity, officials insisted that the operation has clear limits. Hegseth concluded that unlike previous engagements in the Middle East, this campaign is aimed at specific threats and is not a long-term occupation or political endeavor. The administration has framed the strikes as a decisive, time-bound effort to safeguard regional and national security.
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