Hegseth Urges Allies to Boost Support or Defend Themselves as U.S. Maintains Blockade on Iran Amid Extended Ceasefire

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned U.S. Allies to increase their support for the ongoing conflict with Iran or face the prospect of having to defend themselves, as tensions persist in the Strait of Hormuz amid a continued U.S.-Iran ceasefire.

Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon on Friday, Hegseth emphasized that the United States is not under pressure to reach a negotiated settlement with Iran, stating that the Trump administration believes it has all the time in the world to achieve its objectives. He reiterated that the U.S. Navy’s blockade of Iranian vessels and ports will remain in place “as long as it takes” until talks with Iranian officials conclude.

Hegseth dismissed concerns about the duration of the military operation, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, which has now lasted nearly two months. He argued that the campaign has delivered a “decisive military result” in a short timeframe, contrasting it with past U.S. Engagements in Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan, which he described as endless wars that dragged on for years.

The defense secretary also echoed President Donald Trump’s recent remarks that the U.S. Had already degraded Iran’s military capabilities in the initial weeks of the conflict and is now observing what diplomatic outcome might emerge from ongoing discussions. Trump had announced earlier in the week that a two-week ceasefire with Iran would be extended, while maintaining that the naval blockade would continue.

Hegseth’s remarks came amid warnings from Iranian officials that they would pursue an “eye for an eye” strategy in response to U.S. Actions. The Pentagon chief framed the current situation as a test of allied burden-sharing, urging NATO partners and other U.S. Allies to contribute more substantially to the effort rather than relying on American military power alone.

Despite the continued ceasefire, Hegseth made clear that the United States sees no urgency in concluding a deal, insisting that Iran must either abandon its nuclear program in verifiable terms or face continued economic pressure from the blockade. He stated that with the U.S. Maintaining control of the timeline, “the clock is not on their side.”

The situation remains fluid, with international observers monitoring developments in the Strait of Hormuz, where competing interests over shipping lanes have intensified amid the standoff. While diplomatic channels remain open, including anticipated talks involving Iranian officials and regional partners such as Pakistan, the U.S. Maintains its hardline stance on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.