Pete Hegseth said Tuesday that the ceasefire with Iran remains in effect, despite reports of renewed strikes by both sides a day earlier.
Speaking at a press conference, Hegseth stressed that the United States is “not looking for a fight,” but warned that Tehran would not be allowed to disrupt shipping in the Strait of Hormuz or any international waterway.
He cautioned that any attack on US forces or commercial vessels would trigger an “overwhelming and devastating” response.
The Pentagon chief added that the US military is maintaining active communication with hundreds of vessels, as well as shipping companies and insurers, to ensure maritime safety amid heightened tensions.
Meanwhile, General Dan Caine said Iran had carried out nine attacks on commercial ships and seized two container vessels since the ceasefire, in addition to targeting US forces.
However, he noted that the incidents have not yet crossed the threshold for a return to large-scale combat operations.
Caine emphasized that US forces remain fully prepared to escalate if necessary. “No adversary should mistake our current restraint for a lack of resolve,” he said.
On Monday, merchant vessels in the Gulf reported explosions and fires, while an oil facility in the United Arab Emirates caught fire following reported missile strikes.
