U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegset has stated that any agreement with Iran would be considered a positive development, provided it ensures the country does not acquire nuclear weapons. His comments, made during an international forum in Singapore, reflect the current U.S. administration’s cautious approach to negotiations.
Hegset emphasized President Donald Trump’s patience in pursuing a deal that meets these criteria. He remarked, “This morning I had the opportunity to speak with President Trump. He wanted me to reiterate how patient he is in ensuring that any agreement made by America in this historic endeavor is a good one, even a great one, and he is patient in this pursuit.”
In a more assertive tone, Hegset warned that if Iran is unwilling to reach a beneficial agreement, it may face military consequences from the United States. He stated, “If Iran does not want to come to the table for a favorable agreement that guarantees the absence of nuclear weapons, then Tehran can ‘measure its strength’ against the U.S. military.”
When pressed by reporters about his earlier assertion that any deal would be advantageous, Hegset responded, “I enjoy insincere questions from an insincere press. I said it would be a beneficial agreement.” He also noted that U.S. forces are prepared to resume combat operations if necessary, citing sufficient weapons stockpiles for such a task.
Hegset’s remarks followed a meeting between Trump and his advisors at the White House, where it was reported that the president was set to make a final decision regarding the Iran deal. However, despite the discussions, no official statements from Trump were released in the hours following the meeting.
In recent days, Trump has indicated that an unfavorable deal for the U.S. would lead to the resumption of military actions against Iran. Concurrently, reports have emerged suggesting that a framework agreement had been tentatively reached, which would extend a ceasefire for 60 days, open the Strait of Hormuz, and initiate talks on Iran’s nuclear program to finalize an agreement within that timeframe. However, this framework still requires Trump’s approval, and it remains unclear whether he has granted it. Additionally, Trump reiterated a four-point ultimatum to Iran, stating that the opening of the Strait would only occur if Iran abandons its nuclear ambitions.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegset has expressed that any agreement with Iran must prevent nuclear armament, emphasizing President Trump's patience in negotiations. Hegset's comments come amid ongoing discussions about a potential framework agreement, which still awaits Trump's approval.