Secretary of War Pete Hegseth speaks at a security summit in Singapore, on May 30, 2026. Edgar Su/Reuters
The United States is prepared to resume military strikes against Iran if negotiations fail to produce an agreement, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said on May 30, noting that Washington is ready to return to combat even though President Donald Trump prefers a diplomatic solution to end the war.
“Our ability to recommence if necessary … we are more than capable,” Hegseth said during remarks at the Shangri-La Dialogue security conference in Singapore on May 30. The Pentagon chief added that Trump is “patient” and is holding out for a “great deal” that ensures that Iran does not obtain nuclear weapons.
