US Threatens New Strike on Iran if Talks Fail, Hegseth Boasts

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has issued a stern warning that Washington is prepared to resume military strikes against Iran if ongoing negotiations fail to reach a deal. The statement came amid intensifying diplomatic efforts to extend the current ceasefire.

Speaking at the annual Asia Security Summit, the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Saturday (30 May 2026), Hegseth affirmed that the US military is fully prepared to act offensively if necessary.

“We have the capability to restart (strikes) if required. We are more than capable,” Hegseth stated. He added that the US military’s position is robust, with ample logistical support.

“Our weapons stockpiles are more than sufficient, both in the region and globally. We are in a very strong position,” he added.

The defence secretary’s remarks followed a two-hour meeting in the White House Situation Room by President Donald Trump to finalise a decision on extending the April ceasefire by 60 days. The White House has yet to confirm whether a final decision has been made.

President Trump has consistently set two non-negotiable conditions for Iran:

On the other hand, Tehran has displayed contradictory behaviour. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, speaking on state television, stated that Tehran would only open the Strait of Hormuz after the US lifts its blockade on Iranian vessels.

Regional tensions remain high as the previous ceasefire period expires. The world now awaits whether diplomacy in Singapore and Washington can prevent a wider military escalation in the Middle East. (Newsweek/I-2)