ISLAMABAD: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth affirmed on Monday that President Donald Trump remains committed to pursuing a nuclear deal with Iran despite recent military escalations in the Middle East.
Hegseth emphasized that U.S. forces are maintaining a defensive stance in the region to support peace efforts.
“We are postured defensively in the region to be strong in pursuit of a peace deal,” he said, expressing hope for a diplomatic resolution.
Meanwhile, a White House aide firmly denied reports that American forces are currently attacking Iran.
The aide clarified that the U.S. is focused on protecting its personnel and assets while avoiding direct conflict with Tehran.
Escalation Between Israel and Iran Raises Regional Tensions
The recent surge in violence began after Israel launched air strikes against Iran, triggering missile and drone retaliations from Tehran.
Casualty figures have mounted, with Iranian officials reporting over 220 deaths and Israel confirming 24 civilian casualties.
Israel claims its actions target Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, which it views as direct threats to regional security.
Iran, a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, denies seeking nuclear weapons and insists its nuclear activities are peaceful.
The ongoing air conflict exacerbates an already volatile situation, especially following Israel’s military operations in Gaza since late 2023.
U.S. Maintains Defensive Posture Amid Rising Hostilities
Hegseth reassured that U.S. forces remain vigilant and ready to defend American interests in the region.
He stressed that Washington has consistently warned Iran against attacking U.S. personnel or assets.
White House aide Alex Pfeiffer used social media to dismiss false reports of U.S. aggression toward Iran, confirming the defensive nature of U.S. military presence.
Despite rising tensions, the U.S. administration continues to push for diplomacy and a peaceful resolution to the nuclear dispute.
