‘More than capable’: Pentagon chief warns US ready for renewed Iran strikes if no deal is reached

The Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth issued a stark warning on Saturday amid ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran to bridge major differences in a bid to reach a final agreement.

According to Defense Secretary Hegseth, the US is ready to restart strikes on Iran in the case of failure to reach a final deal. And the US is determined not to accept any deal which is bereft of suitable nuclear clauses.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Asia’s premier forum for defence leaders, militaries and diplomats, Hegseth said, “Our ability to recommence if necessary...we are more than capable.”

"Our stockpiles are more than ​suited for that, both there and around the globe, ​so we're in a very good place," he added.

He also added that President Trump is willing to make a “great deal” with Iran that prevents Tehran from acquiring the nuclear weapons and enrichment of uranium.

Hegseth also clarified that the US has not abandoned its allies in the Asia-Pacific region despite being engaged in conflict with Iran for several months.

"We can do two things at one time. We're super-charging our defence industrial base so ​that we're building 2X, 3X, 4X the munitions very soon ​to ensure that all of our (operations) plans are properly funded throughout the world," ‌he ⁠said.

At the same time, he also urged the allies to increase their defence spending to at least 3.5 percent of GDP. Those countries that are not willing to boost their defense spending, will face consequences in terms of relations with Washington.

“To those who believe they can continue to free ride on the generosity of the American taxpayer, hear us now – those days are over,” he cautioned. 

On Friday, Donald Trump announced plans to convene a meeting in a secure White House facility to reach a final decision regarding a proposal to conclude the war in Iran. 

The proposal aims to extend the existing truce by an additional 60 days, providing negotiators with the necessary window to secure a permanent peace agreement.