US Strikes 7,000 Targets in Iran: Hegseth Claims Navy ‘No Longer a Factor’

The United States has struck over 7,000 targets in Iran since the start of the ongoing conflict, according to US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. The announcement, made on March 19, 2026, signals a significant escalation in the military campaign and comes as tensions remain high following an Israeli strike on a critical Iranian gas field and subsequent retaliatory attacks.

Hegseth further claimed that Iran’s navy is “no longer a factor” in the conflict, alleging the destruction of 120 naval ships. While the extent of damage to Iran’s naval capabilities remains independently unverified, the claim underscores the aggressive posture adopted by the US in the region. The Pentagon is reportedly seeking an additional $200 billion from Congress to fund the war, a request Hegseth justified by stating, “it takes money to kill bad guys.”

Escalating Costs and Global Impact

The conflict is already having a tangible impact on global markets. Reuters reported on Thursday that US crude futures rose above $97 per barrel, while natural gas prices increased by 3% and Brent crude futures climbed to $111.87 a barrel, a 4% increase for the day. This surge in oil prices is directly linked to the disruption of oil supplies caused by the attacks on infrastructure in the Persian Gulf, including Iran’s retaliatory strikes on refineries and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Nationwide, gas prices have already risen to an average of $3.90 a gallon.

The situation is complicated by the differing responses from key international actors. President Donald Trump, while attempting to distance the US from Israel’s initial strike on the South Pars gas field – describing it as a “violent lash out” – issued a warning that the US would destroy the remainder of the field if Iran continued attacks on its neighbors. This ambiguous stance highlights the delicate balancing act the US is attempting as it navigates the conflict and attempts to maintain relationships with regional allies, including those hosting US military bases.

US Objectives and Long-Term Strategy

Despite the escalating conflict and rising costs, US Defence Secretary Hegseth stated that the United States’ objectives in the war against Iran have not changed. This suggests a continued commitment to a military solution, despite growing international concerns and the potential for further escalation. Hegseth also dismissed the roles within the Iranian military as “temp jobs,” a statement intended to undermine the regime’s authority and resolve.

The US military is reportedly employing increasingly aggressive tactics, with Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine stating that forces are “penetrating deeper into Iranian airspace to hunt and kill.” Caine also revealed the use of 5,000-pound penetrator weapons against underground storage facilities housing coastal defense cruise weapons. These actions indicate a strategy focused on degrading Iran’s military infrastructure and capabilities, but also carry the risk of further provoking retaliatory strikes.

International Law and Future Outlook

Analysts, as reported by Al Jazeera, have raised concerns that the US threat of “no quarter” for Iran may violate international law. This highlights the legal and ethical complexities of the conflict and the potential for accusations of war crimes. The lack of a clear timeframe for ending the war, as stated by Hegseth, suggests a prolonged and potentially devastating conflict.

Looking ahead, observers should monitor several key developments. The outcome of the Pentagon’s request for $200 billion in additional funding from Congress will be crucial in determining the scope and duration of the US military campaign. Further escalation of attacks on critical infrastructure in the Persian Gulf could lead to a wider regional conflict. Finally, the response from Iran to the latest US strikes will be a key indicator of whether the conflict will continue to escalate or whether there is a possibility of de-escalation and negotiation.