US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said military operations against Iran will not become an endless war. He stated that American forces are targeting Tehran’s missile systems, navy, and security infrastructure. His remarks come as US-Israeli strikes intensify and regional tensions remain high.
Speaking at the Pentagon, Pete Hegseth said the United States is acting with precision and overwhelming force. He declared that the campaign is being conducted surgically and without apology. However, he declined to provide a timeline for the operation’s completion. Hegseth emphasized that the duration of the conflict ultimately rests with Donald Trump.
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Meanwhile, US Central Command confirmed that three American F-15 fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses during an Iranian attack. The incident underscored the complexity and risks of the expanding air campaign. US officials said investigations are ongoing into the friendly fire episode. Despite the setback, military operations against Iranian targets continue.
Hegseth stressed that Washington’s objective is to weaken Iran’s military capabilities and reduce threats to US forces and allies. He rejected comparisons to prolonged US wars in the Middle East. According to him, the campaign differs from past interventions because it focuses on specific military infrastructure. He maintained that the mission is limited and strategically defined.
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The comments come as the United States and Israel press forward with coordinated strikes on Iranian assets. Analysts warn that continued escalation could widen the conflict across the region. Still, US officials insist that the campaign aims to deter aggression rather than prolong war. The coming days are expected to test that strategy.