Hegseth: U.S. Targets Iran Missile, Naval Capabilities

U.S. defense officials say Iran’s missile programs and naval power projection remain key targets of American military strategy.

Speaking at a Pentagon briefing, Pete Hegseth said the administration’s objectives regarding Iran have remained consistent since the beginning of the current effort.

Hegseth said U.S. priorities include targeting Iran’s missile production, missile programs and defense industrial base, which he described as central to Tehran’s military capabilities. He added that limiting Iran’s ability to project power through its navy is another major focus.

According to the defense secretary, weakening those capabilities would help prevent Iran from expanding its military influence across the region. He reiterated that the overarching goal of the United States remains ensuring that Iran never develops a nuclear weapon.

Officials say those objectives have been repeatedly emphasized by senior administration leaders, including Donald Trump and other top national security officials.