U.S. Continues to Pursue a 'Great Deal' On Iran, but Prepared to Restart War, Says Hegseth

Why It Matters

The statement clarifies that the U.S. will negotiate with Iran only under strict terms, preserving a war option that shapes regional security calculations and informs allies and rivals alike.

Key Takeaways

• US seeks “great deal” with Iran, but war remains option
• President will only sign agreement if it secures U.S. interests
• U.S. claims Iran's nuclear capability blocked after 47 years
• Hegseth emphasizes deeper U.S.-China military coordination at mill‑to‑mill level
• Taiwan policy unchanged; U.S. stance communicated quietly but unequivocally

Summary

U.S. national security adviser Hegseth outlined Washington’s dual track on Iran, stressing that any agreement must be a “great deal” for America and global security while retaining the option to restart hostilities if Tehran’s nuclear ambitions persist. He highlighted the president’s willingness to sign only when the deal unequivocally prevents Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, noting that after 47 years of effort the United States believes Iran is currently incapable of building one.

The official also underscored a strengthened U.S. posture, stating that American forces are positioned even more robustly than at the outset of the Iran negotiations. Hegseth conveyed that Iran is fully aware of Washington’s expectations, and that allies are being briefed on the firm, “quiet but clear” stance, whether in public forums or behind closed doors.

In parallel, Hegseth described a new chapter of U.S.-China military engagement, citing multiple meetings with his Chinese counterpart and a commitment to facilitate mill‑to‑mill collaboration. He reaffirmed that the administration’s Taiwan policy remains unchanged, with only the rhetoric evolving to reflect a more measured communication style.

The remarks signal to Tehran that diplomatic overtures will be tightly conditioned, while reassuring regional partners of U.S. resolve. They also hint at a calibrated approach to great‑power competition, balancing pressure on Iran with constructive dialogue with China, and maintaining a consistent deterrent posture toward Taiwan.

Original Description

U.S. continues to pursue a 'great deal' which would make sure Iran does not have nuclear weapons, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told the press in Singapore during his trip for the 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue security summit. Hegseth also hailed a "new chapter" in relations with China, saying a "more collaborative" approach would guid ties between the two superpowers.

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