WASHINGTON, D.C., April 16 (ANI): The United States is “reloading with more power than before,” Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said during a Pentagon briefing on Thursday, warning that the maritime blockade against Iran will continue “for as long as it takes.”
Hegseth cautioned that U.S. forces are prepared to resume military strikes if Tehran declines a potential peace agreement. “For as long as it takes, we will maintain this successful blockade,” he said, reiterating that the United States is “reloading with more power than before.”
Highlighting military readiness, Hegseth said forces have been positioned to begin combat operations if a diplomatic resolution is not achieved, adding that the message to Iran is clear: “We are watching you.”
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine underscored the high level of preparedness, stating that during the current pause, the U.S. joint force remains ready to resume major combat operations at a moment’s notice.
Providing details on the scope of the maritime restrictions, Caine said the measures are comprehensive. “Let me be clear: this blockade applies to all ships, regardless of nationality, heading into or from Iranian ports,” he said.
He explained that the action constitutes a blockade of Iran’s ports and coastline, not the Strait of Hormuz, with enforcement taking place both within Iran’s territorial waters and in international waters.
Caine added that U.S. forces will target Iranian-flagged vessels or ships attempting to provide “material support” to Iran.
While maintaining military pressure, he urged Tehran to consider the long-term consequences of its decisions, saying the country could “choose a prosperous future, a golden bridge,” which Washington hopes will benefit the Iranian people.
However, he warned that if Iran rejects the opportunity, it could face continued blockade measures and potential strikes on infrastructure, power, and energy sectors. (ANI)
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