Defense Secretary Hegseth says President Trump is closely engaged in the Israel-Iran crisis, urging peace and strong US readiness.

US Leadership Amid Escalating Conflict

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth assured Americans that President Donald Trump is fully focused on the rapidly intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran, highlighting that this is not a moment for distracted or passive leadership. Speaking Saturday, Hegseth underscored that President Trump is “dialed in,” closely following every dynamic of the situation and setting the pace for how the United States responds to regional developments.

The latest hostilities began when Israel’s Defense Forces launched a major strike against Iran, following months of unsuccessful nuclear negotiations. Iran responded by firing a barrage of ballistic missiles into multiple areas of Israel, sharply escalating tensions in the region.

Hegseth stated that the Trump administration is monitoring developments in real time and that the President is leading efforts to ensure American interests and allies are protected. “The American people can be assured that President Trump is dialed in,” Hegseth emphasized, reiterating that Trump’s priority is putting America first. He explained, “He knows every single dynamic of what’s going on here, and I get to see it every single day.”

Readiness and Calls for Peace

Hegseth addressed the rationale behind Israel’s actions, noting that Israeli leaders felt compelled to act in self-defense against perceived threats from Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. He highlighted the United States’ “robust” posture in the region, explaining that American bases, personnel, and interests remain secure amid the hostilities.

“We will keep Americans safe. Ultimately, it should be clear to Iran that they should not turn their gaze to the United States. That would be a bad idea,” Hegseth warned. He further conveyed President Trump’s stance that, despite military preparedness, the preferred path remains diplomatic negotiation and peaceful resolution. “The president continues to message that he prefers peace, he prefers a solution to this that is resolved at the table,” Hegseth said.

Asked about surprise developments, Hegseth responded, “I wouldn’t say we were really surprised by any dynamic of the back and forth that’s been ongoing, but we’re monitoring it closely.” He stressed that the administration’s responsibility is to remain vigilant, anticipate developments, and give the president the widest range of options to keep Americans safe.

Hegseth concluded by reaffirming the administration’s resolve to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He explained that Israel viewed Iran’s nuclear ambitions as a direct threat, prompting the recent escalation. “As this back and forth continues, we’re going to defend our folks, and the president is also making — and by the way robustly and strongly — this is not some sort of a perspective where we’re worried or concerned. We’re vigilant, we’re prepared in a strong defensive posture.”

While the situation remains tense, the Trump administration is urging Iran to return to negotiations and choose a peaceful resolution. “Iran knows. They know they can come back. They’re making their own decisions right now, and we hope they would choose a negotiated option,” Hegseth concluded, signaling that diplomatic solutions remain on the table as the conflict unfolds.