By Elsie Kamsiyochi
The United States has issued one of its strongest warnings yet to Iran, with senior American defense officials declaring that U.S. forces are fully prepared to launch new attacks on Iran’s energy sector and critical infrastructure if diplomatic negotiations fail in the coming days.
Speaking at the Pentagon, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Washington has deliberately shown restraint during the current ceasefire, but emphasized that military options remain ready for immediate use. According to Hegseth, the naval blockade imposed on Iran earlier this week should be seen as a measured step, not the full extent of what the United States could do if tensions rise again.
“We are reloading with more power than ever before,” Hegseth said, adding that American intelligence and strike capabilities have been significantly strengthened since the conflict began. He warned that Iran’s remaining power generation facilities, industrial networks, and energy infrastructure could become targets if Tehran refuses to accept terms in upcoming negotiations.
The warning comes as the temporary ceasefire between the two countries is scheduled to expire next week. While Washington has publicly expressed hope that diplomacy can still prevent a wider war, military commanders made clear that U.S. forces across the Middle East are already positioned for rapid action if talks collapse.
General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said U.S. forces could resume large-scale combat operations “at a moment’s notice.” He noted that naval and air units in the region have already adjusted their operational posture, allowing them to respond quickly to any order from President Donald Trump.
At the center of the pressure campaign is a sweeping U.S.-led naval blockade aimed at choking off Iranian trade. Since it began, multiple ships attempting to reach Iranian ports have reportedly been turned back. American warships and surveillance aircraft are now monitoring maritime traffic across key regional waters, including the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
U.S. officials say any vessel suspected of carrying supplies to Iran could be stopped, searched, and potentially seized. Military leaders also warned that enforcement could extend beyond the Persian Gulf into wider international waters if necessary.
The blockade has already shaken global energy markets, as traders fear prolonged disruption to oil and gas shipments. Analysts say Iran may be able to withstand the loss of exports for only a limited period before its domestic energy production begins to suffer serious damage.
Despite the aggressive language from Washington, diplomatic channels remain open. Iranian officials have reportedly proposed measures that could allow commercial shipping to continue safely through parts of the Strait of Hormuz, but only if a broader agreement can be reached before the ceasefire expires.
For now, the United States says it prefers a negotiated settlement. But Thursday’s message from the Pentagon was unmistakable: if diplomacy fails, military force remains firmly on the table.
Source Reuters
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