US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the United States seeks a negotiated agreement with Iran but remains prepared to continue the conflict if talks fail. He emphasized that the ongoing Iran war would end only under the conditions set by President Donald Trump, underscoring Washington’s firm stance on the matter.

Hegseth also mentioned that the United States is continuing discussions with Iran and called on other nations to help ensure the openness of the strategic Strait of Hormuz. His remarks were reported by Al Jazeera, reflecting the administration’s dual approach of diplomacy backed by military readiness.

The statement comes amid reports of rising fuel prices worldwide and significant casualties linked to the Iran war, including claims by Iran’s Red Crescent that 234 students have been killed and 1,268 deaths reported in Lebanon.