US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth acknowledged that Iran still possesses the ability to launch missile strikes despite a month of joint US-Israeli attacks. Speaking at a Pentagon briefing on Tuesday, he said the decision on when the war will end ultimately rests with President Trump. Hegseth stated that Iran retains retaliatory capacity but claimed its military strength has been significantly weakened.

This was the first official Pentagon briefing on the war situation in about two weeks, following the last one on March 19. Hegseth also revealed that he made an unannounced visit to US troops stationed in the Middle East, where he observed their morale and urgency to conclude operations quickly. He asserted that the United States is now closer to victory than ever before.

The ongoing conflict has already placed heavy pressure on the global economy, with energy markets becoming unstable and fuel prices rising in the United States. Analysts believe Iran’s limited yet effective missile capability and strategic position are prolonging the war, making a swift resolution uncertain without diplomatic efforts from the White House.