LIVE: Hegseth Holds a Briefing at the Pentagon

Why It Matters

The blockade and interdictions escalate U.S.-Iran confrontation with immediate implications for global shipping, energy routes and commercial insurance costs, and shift pressure onto U.S. allies to contribute or face greater exposure. The public threat to use lethal force against Iranian vessels raises risks of wider military conflict and market volatility.

Summary

At a Pentagon briefing Secretary Hegseth and the chairman framed Operation Epic Fury as a short, decisive campaign to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, announcing an expanding, global U.S.-enforced naval blockade and recent seizures of Iranian “dark fleet” vessels. Hegseth said 34 ships have been turned away, a second carrier will join the blockade soon, and U.S. forces have authority to destroy Iranian fast boats or mines threatening passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The briefing characterized Iran’s IRGC as maritime “pirates,” urged Tehran to negotiate a verifiable abandonment of nuclear ambitions, and credited President Trump with directing the campaign. Officials also signaled readiness to resume major combat operations if ordered.

Original Description

Watch live from the Pentagon as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth holds a briefing.