Hegseth Declares US Winning in Fight Against Iran

Is the US winning the fight against Iran?

Pete Hegseth has declared that the United States is ‘winning’ in the fight against Iran, stating that today marks the ‘most intense day’ of US strikes inside the country. This assertion comes as the US military enters the 11th day of its operation against Iran, during which ballistic missile attacks from Iran have reportedly diminished by 90% since the campaign began.

To date, the US military has struck more than 5,000 targets in Iran, including the destruction of over 50 Iranian naval vessels. Hegseth emphasized that the US will not engage in endless nation-building in Iran, contrasting the current military strategy with past conflicts.

Hegseth accused Iran of using civilian infrastructure, such as schools and hospitals, to launch missile attacks, complicating the military response. The US has deployed dozens of 2,000lb GPS-guided penetrating weapons on missile launchers, indicating a significant escalation in the military’s operational capabilities.

In a broader context, President Donald Trump has threatened to increase strikes on Iran by 20 times if oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted, highlighting the strategic importance of this region. The US is currently considering options to ensure the Strait remains open for tanker traffic, which is vital for global oil supply.

Hegseth stated, “We will not relent until the enemy is totally and decisively defeated,” reinforcing the commitment of the US military to achieve its objectives in the region. He also noted, “Iran stands alone, and they are badly losing,” suggesting a shift in the balance of power.

Historically, the US has previously claimed to have ‘obliterated’ Iran’s nuclear program after strikes on key facilities in June 2025, setting the stage for the current military operations. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about civilian casualties, with reports indicating that 165 people were killed in a strike on an all-girls school, where 170 girls were present at the time.

As the situation develops, the international community watches closely for further updates on the military campaign and its implications for regional stability. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full impact of the US operations and the potential for future engagements.