The US Secretary of Defense warns Iran of difficult choices regarding its nuclear program

Speaking to reporters, Hegseth added: “Now is the time for them to decide to abandon the whole matter in the way that suits them, without any pressure, or we may push them to abandon it the hard way.”

Hegseth explained that "US President Donald Trump remains determined to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons," warning that "Tehran must choose between abandoning its nuclear ambitions or facing more difficult US measures."

Hegseth also refused to confirm whether the United States intends to deploy an aircraft carrier in the region, saying that "his responsibility is to provide the widest possible range of military options to President Trump."

In response to a question about whether Washington has evidence that Iran is trying to rebuild its missile capabilities, Hegseth said, “The United States is monitoring developments in real time.”

Hegseth described the American blockade as "an essential tool in the pressure campaign launched by Washington against Iran," and said: "Iran wants to play games with things like the Strait of Hormuz... They do not control it, and we control it."

In response to a question about whether the conflict could eventually have a military solution, Hegseth added that it “can be resolved in multiple ways,” explaining that Trump has repeatedly offered Iran an opportunity to reach an agreement through negotiations.

Hegseth concluded, saying: “Iran must make the right choice. If it does not, the president will have all the options he needs.”

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's statements regarding Iran come at a time when the region is witnessing continued escalation.