US Defense Secretary’s controversial statement on Iran conflict, called it a ‘gift to the world’

Washington- Amidst the increasing tension between America and Iran, US Defense Secretary (Secretary of War) Pete Hegseth has given a big statement. Hegseth has called the ongoing conflict with Iran “a gift to the world.” He made clear that the US blockade of Iran’s maritime traffic will continue “as long as it is needed.”

Pentagon’s tough stance

Addressing reporters at the Pentagon, Hegseth said the maritime sanctions are part of his “bold and dangerous” mission to neutralize Iran’s perceived threat to international stability. However, contrary to US claims, data from Lloyd’s List Intelligence shows that Iran continues to export oil despite sanctions through its ‘Shadow Fleet’. Since April 13, 11 tankers carrying Iranian cargo have been tracked through the Gulf of Oman.

Iran’s counterattack: “A large part of missile capacity still remains”

Iran’s Defense Ministry spokesperson Brigadier General Reza Talai-Nik has given a strong warning to America. “A large part of our missile capability remains unused,” he said. The general also claimed that the Strait of Hormuz is completely under the control of Iran’s “intelligent and powerful management”. He described it as a “control lever” to meet the demands of the Iranian nation.

Diplomacy efforts behind the scenes

On one side there is military tension and on the other side there is intense diplomatic activity. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt has confirmed that President Donald Trump’s special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are arriving in Pakistan (Islamabad). According to Levitt, this meeting is taking place on the initiative of Iran. However, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has not officially confirmed any pre-scheduled meeting with the US delegation.

Are there rifts in Iran’s leadership?

The report by the American think tank ‘Institute for the Study of War’ (ISW) has pointed to differences within Tehran. According to reports, IRGC commander Ahmed Wahedi’s faction is preventing ‘pragmatic’ leaders like Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf from adopting a more flexible approach. Ghalibaf’s absence in this diplomatic phase gives further strength to these claims.

Finally, at the Pentagon, Hegseth made it clear that President Trump believes the US has “all the time in the world” and is not eager to make a deal in a hurry. It remains to be seen whether these meetings in Islamabad will be able to reach a “sensible deal”.