Hegseth: US ready to enforce Iran blockade
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has issued a direct warning to Iran's IRGC, stating the United States is monitoring the movement and deployment of Iranian military assets. He declared that US Armed Forces can rapidly shift from major combat operations to enforcing a 'world-class blockade' against Iran. This represents the latest escalation in US rhetoric amid ongoing tensions over Iran's military posture and the US naval blockade. Hegseth's comments reinforce the Trump administration's hardline stance while maintaining pressure on Tehran.
Hegseth explicitly offered Iran a 'golden bridge' to prosperity and detailed that bombs would target infrastructure, power, and energy if Iran chooses poorly.
Hegseth's statement directly reiterates the dual message of offering a 'golden bridge' to prosperity while maintaining the blockade, confirming the ongoing US posture.
Hegseth emphasized the US military's ability to transition 'seamlessly from major combat operations to a world-class blockade' and execute it 'more powerfully than ever' at Trump's direction.
General Caine clarified that the US action is a blockade of Iran's ports and coastline, not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
General Caine explicitly stated the blockade now targets 'dark fleet' vessels carrying Iranian oil, allowing for their seizure globally.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine has stated the US military is ready to resume major combat operations at a moment's notice.
General Caine has clarified that the Joint Force will actively pursue Iranian-flagged or blockade-running vessels in all areas of responsibility, including the Pacific under Admiral Paparo.
Hegseth elaborated on U.S. military readiness, stating it can transition 'seamlessly' to a blockade and is prepared to do so 'more powerfully than ever'.
Hegseth specifically addressed the IRGC and stated the US is aware of Iranian military asset movements and their deployment locations.
