U.S. Defense Secretary Highlights Irans Weakened Military Capabilities

Washington, March 19: The United States has intensified its operations against Iran, conducting attacks on over 7,000 sites within the country. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the conflict has entered an aggressive phase, significantly weakening Iran’s military capabilities.

Hegseth remarked, “We are decisively winning on our terms.”

During a press conference at the Pentagon, he dismissed concerns that the war could drag on for an extended period. He emphasized that the campaign remains focused and decisive, aiming to dismantle Iran’s missile systems, defense industry, and naval power while preventing them from acquiring nuclear weapons.

According to Hegseth, ballistic missile attacks on U.S. forces have decreased by 90% since the conflict began, with a similar decline in drone attacks. He noted, “We know that if the Iranians could do more, they would, but now they cannot.”

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General Dan Keen, stated that U.S. forces are operating according to plan, continuing attacks on deeper, underground facilities. Keen mentioned that U.S. military dropped 5,000-pound penetrator weapons on underground storage sites on Wednesday.

He added, “Operations are now advancing eastward and penetrating deeper into Iranian airspace.” Keen also reported that the U.S. has targeted Iran’s naval capabilities, claiming that over 120 ships have been damaged or sunk, effectively neutralizing Iran’s submarine fleet and rendering its surface fleet insignificant.

Detailing operational activities, Keen stated that U.S. forces remain actively engaged against Iran’s missile capabilities, continuing efforts to locate and destroy munitions storage facilities and naval ammunition depots.

The Pentagon highlighted the increasing use of air power. A-10 aircraft and AH-64 Apache helicopters are now active on the southern front, including the Strait of Hormuz, targeting fast attack boats and drone sites. Bombers like the B-1, B-2, and B-52 are conducting long-range missions supported by extensive aerial refueling.

Despite the intensity of operations, U.S. officials have not provided a timeline for concluding the campaign. Hegseth stated that they are proceeding according to plan, with the decision to end operations resting with President Donald Trump.

The Defense Secretary described this conflict as a direct response to Iran’s long-standing actions, stating, “They have been in a state of war with us for 47 years, whether we acknowledge it or not.” He cited attacks on U.S. personnel and support for various militant groups as evidence.

General Keen acknowledged that Iran still possesses some offensive capabilities, having entered the conflict well-armed. He noted the need for multi-layered defense systems in the region and the continuation of missile launches.

Hegseth confirmed strong support from regional allies, stating that Gulf countries have stepped up significantly. He identified the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia as key partners alongside Israel.

The Pentagon also reported that, amid internet shutdowns within the country, it is countering Iran’s disinformation efforts. Hegseth accused the Iranian regime of spreading AI-generated fake images to influence public perception regarding the conflict.

–