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3. U.S. Defense Secretary Warns of Intensified Strikes Against Iran

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth held a press conference Tuesday at the Pentagon alongside Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, providing an update on the ongoing U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran.

Hegseth described the campaign as a “laser-focused, maximum authority mission” employing overwhelming military force and precision. He said Tuesday would mark the “most intense day of strikes inside Iran” to date, involving the largest number of fighters, bombers, and coordinated attacks in the operation so far.

The Defense Secretary asserted that Iran is increasingly isolated on the global stage and facing military difficulties. He claimed several of Tehran’s regional partners have distanced themselves, and that Iranian proxy groups, including Hezbollah and Tehran must reach a deal or face intensified military action, noting that U.S. President Donald Trump “does not bluff” and is prepared to escalate operations if necessary.

The Pentagon chief concluded that the United States and Israel are committed to a campaign combining military pressure with diplomacy, signaling a critical juncture in the conflict with Iran.