US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that Washington is closely monitoring Iranian movements and remains prepared for further military action if necessary.

Axar.az reports, citing NBC, opening a Pentagon briefing, Hegseth said, “We’re watching you,” adding that the United States is “locked and loaded” against what he described as Iran’s “critical dual-use infrastructure, remaining power generation and energy industry.”

He emphasized that while the US prefers a diplomatic resolution, it is prepared to act on presidential orders “at the push of a button.” “We’d rather not have to do it, but we’re ready to go,” he said.

Hegseth also referred to the ongoing naval blockade of Iranian ports and coastal areas, describing it as “the polite way that this can go,” amid rising tensions in the region.