Hegseth says ‘ceasefire not over’ while Trump launches ‘Project Freedom’
(Getty)
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the US is “not looking for a fight” in the Strait of Hormuz but threatened “overwhelming force” against Iran if it attacks commercial ships.
Hegseth labeled Iran the “clear aggressor” following Monday’s reported attacks in the waterway, which included explosions, fires, and the US destroying six Iranian military boats.
Project Freedom, announced by Donald Trump, aims to ensure safe passage for ships through the Strait, though Hegseth clarified it is a temporary measure to be handed back to international control.
Gen. Dan Caine reported 22,500 mariners are currently stuck in the Gulf, noting Iran has fired at commercial vessels nine times and seized two ships since a recent ceasefire. Caine affirmed that US forces, including 15,000 service members and continuous air surveillance, are prepared to resume major combat operations against Iran if necessary to protect commercial shipping.
Responding to reporters, Hegseth clarified that the “ceasefire is not over,” while insisting the US is “defending,” and urges Iran to keep clashes under the threshold for re-escalation.
