Pete Hegseth has said the United States is actively confronting efforts by Russia and China to support Iran, as tensions in the region escalate.

Speaking at a press briefing, Hegseth said Washington is fully aware of the role Russia and China are playing in aiding Iran.

“As far as Russia and China, we know exactly what they’re doing,” he said, adding that the US is “addressing, mitigating, or confronting” these actions where necessary.

He declined to provide detailed intelligence publicly but stressed that countermeasures are already underway.

Hegseth warned that the coming days in the Middle East conflict would be critical.

He claimed that recent strikes have significantly impacted Iran’s military morale, leading to desertions, personnel shortages, and frustration among senior leadership.

“We have more and more options, and they have less,” he said, suggesting that Iran’s military capabilities are being weakened.

Claims of Russian support to Iran

Volodymyr Zelenskiy has also alleged that Russia is supplying Iran with drones and intelligence, further complicating the geopolitical situation.

These developments highlight growing international dimensions of the conflict.

US Strategy: Pressure and Unpredictability

Hegseth indicated that the US is keeping all options on the table, including the possibility of ground operations.

He emphasized the need for strategic unpredictability, stating that while such options exist, they may not necessarily be used.

“The point is to be unpredictable,” he said, reinforcing Washington’s flexible military posture.

‘negotiating with bombs’

The US is continuing diplomatic efforts alongside military pressure.

Hegseth said Washington wants a deal with Iran, but warned that if negotiations fail, the US is prepared to continue “negotiating with bombs.”

He added that talks are ongoing and gaining momentum.

Scale of military operations

According to Dan Caine, US forces have struck more than 11,000 targets over the past month.

Operations have focused on:

Ballistic missile systems
Unmanned aerial systems (UAS)
Supply chains and manufacturing sites
Research facilities and uranium-related locations

Caine said joint US-Israeli forces are working to “systematically destroy” Iran’s ability to project power in the region.

Warning to Iran

Hegseth issued a direct warning to Tehran, saying that Iran should consider making a deal.

“If Iran is wise, they’ll cut a deal,” he said, adding that failure to do so could result in an intensified conflict.

He concluded the briefing with strong remarks, emphasizing that the US is prepared for escalation if necessary.

Hegseth issued a direct warning to Tehran, saying that Iran should consider making a deal.

“If Iran is wise, they’ll cut a deal,” he said, adding that failure to do so could result in an intensified conflict.

He concluded the briefing with strong remarks, emphasizing that the US is prepared for escalation if necessary.