Pentagon officials delivered a stark ultimatum to Iran on Thursday, declaring that American military forces stand ready to immediately resume warfare if Tehran refuses to accept a proposed peace agreement.
Speaking at a Department of Defense briefing, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth outlined the administration’s dual approach of diplomatic outreach combined with military pressure against the Islamic Republic.
“You Iran, can choose a prosperous future, a golden bridge, and we hope that you do for the people of Iran,” Hegseth stated during his remarks to reporters.
“But if Iran chooses poorly, then they will have a blockade and bombs dropping on infrastructure, power and energy,” the Defense Secretary warned.
American naval forces have established a comprehensive maritime blockade, preventing vessels from entering or departing Iranian ports as part of the Trump administration’s strategy to compel Tehran toward negotiations.
Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Dan Caine emphasized the military’s state of readiness, telling reporters that U.S. forces were “ready to resume major combat operations at literally a moment’s notice.”
The naval enforcement operation targets any vessel flying Iranian colors or attempting to deliver supplies to the country, according to Caine’s briefing details.
Vessels attempting to breach the maritime barrier face interception and warnings that “If you do not comply with this blockade, we will use force,” with enforcement extending into both Iranian territorial waters and international shipping lanes.
According to military officials, thirteen vessels have voluntarily reversed course rather than challenge the blockade, though no ships have required boarding procedures thus far.
Addressing Iranian leadership directly, Hegseth emphasized American military superiority, stating “this is not a fair fight, and we know what military assets you are moving and where you are moving them to.”
The Trump administration expressed cautious optimism Wednesday about potential diplomatic progress while simultaneously threatening expanded economic sanctions should Iran maintain its current stance.
