"The only thing prohibiting transit in the straits right now is Iran shooting at shipping. It is open for transit should Iran not do that. Now, there's a reason why we chose, as one of our primary objectives, to destroy the Navy. We understood the ability to interdict shipping is something Iran has done for 40 years. It's key terrain. They've used it as leverage."
"We're laser focused on our military objectives, but also want to make sure our partners across this government understand. We're working with you to make sure that energy flows, and that's an important part. We have been dealing with it, and don't need to worry about it."
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth drew criticism for his response to questions about Iran's attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz during a Pentagon press conference. When asked about rising oil prices amid Iranian military actions, Hegseth stated that Iran shooting at shipping is the only factor preventing transit, and the strait remains open if Iran ceases attacks. His brief comments were widely circulated on social media and criticized as oversimplified. In fuller context, Hegseth discussed the military's objectives to counter Iran's 40-year history of using the strait as leverage, mentioned coordinated interagency efforts, and emphasized commitment to ensuring commercial goods flow. However, critics found his overall response inadequate for addressing the complexity of the situation.
#defense-secretary-pete-hegseth #strait-of-hormuz #iran-military-tensions #pentagon-press-conference #oil-prices-and-shipping-security
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