Pete Hegseth has stated that the US is ‘winning’ in its military operations against Iran, marking significant progress in the campaign.
What is the current status of US military operations against Iran?
Pete Hegseth has declared that the United States is ‘winning’ in the fight against Iran, emphasizing that today marks the ‘most intense day’ of US strikes inside the country. As the US military enters the 11th day of its operation against Iran, significant progress has been reported.
According to Hegseth, ballistic missile attacks from Iran have diminished by 90% since the start of the US military campaign. This reduction in hostilities has been accompanied by the US striking more than 5,000 targets in Iran, including the destruction of over 50 Iranian naval vessels.
What actions have been taken by the US military?
The US military has utilized dozens of 2,000lb GPS-guided penetrating weapons on missile launchers, which has contributed to the decrease in Iran’s missile and drone attacks. Hegseth accused Iran of firing missiles from schools and hospitals, further complicating the military landscape.
In a recent strike on an all-girls school, 165 people were reported killed, with 170 girls present in the class during the attack. This incident underscores the tragic consequences of the ongoing conflict.
What are the broader implications of these operations?
Hegseth emphasized that the US will not engage in endless nation-building in Iran, a clear reference to past military interventions. He stated, “This is not 2003. This is not endless nation-building,” indicating a shift in strategy compared to previous conflicts.
Former President Donald Trump has also weighed in, threatening to increase strikes on Iran by 20 times if oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted. The US is currently considering options to ensure the Strait remains open for tanker traffic, highlighting the strategic importance of this region.
What led to the current military actions?
The backdrop to these operations includes previous claims by the US that it had ‘obliterated’ Iran’s nuclear program following strikes on key facilities in June 2025. This historical context frames the current military actions as part of a broader strategy to counter Iran’s influence in the region.
As the situation continues to evolve, Hegseth’s remarks reflect a confident stance on the effectiveness of US military operations. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding the full impact of these strikes and the potential for further escalation in the region.
