US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a warning on Saturday, saying that if current diplomatic negotiations don't result in an agreement, the US is ready to start military action against Iran again.At the Shangri-La Dialogue security meeting in Singapore, Hegseth stated that Washington possesses the military capabilities and capability needed to resume operations whenever needed.During his speech, Hegseth declared, "The United States remains fully prepared." "In the Middle East and around the world, our military readiness and stockpiles are in a strong position."His comments are made during a period when US and Iranian negotiators are attempting to resolve significant differences over Tehran's nuclear program and tensions in the region.

Trump Administration Pushes for Diplomatic Agreement

Hegseth stressed that US President Donald Trump still prefers a diplomatic solution and is seeking a long-term agreement that would prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.According to US officials, discussions are currently underway regarding a proposal that could extend the fragile ceasefire between both countries for another 60 days. The extension would give negotiators additional time to work toward a broader settlement.On Friday, President Trump reportedly met senior advisers inside a secure White House situation room to review the latest proposal and make a final decision regarding the future of the ceasefire agreement.

Despite diplomatic efforts, uncertainty continues to surround the negotiations, with both sides still divided on several key issues.

Conflict Has Already Impacted Global Economy

The ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran, which escalated earlier this year, has already caused major geopolitical and economic consequences.Thousands of people have reportedly been killed across Iran and Lebanon since fighting intensified in late February. At the same time, global energy markets have faced heavy pressure due to disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.The region remains highly sensitive as commercial shipping, oil exports and international trade continue to experience delays and uncertainty.

US Says Asia-Pacific Still a Priority

During his speech in Singapore, Hegseth also attempted to reassure Asian allies that the United States remains committed to the Indo-Pacific region despite tensions in the Middle East.He said Washington is rapidly expanding its defence production capabilities to support military operations worldwide while maintaining strategic readiness in Asia.“We can manage multiple challenges at the same time,” Hegseth stated, adding that the US defence industry is increasing weapons production significantly to strengthen military preparedness.

Warning Over China’s Military Expansion

A large part of Hegseth’s speech focused on China’s growing military presence in the Indo-Pacific region.The Pentagon chief warned that Beijing’s expanding military activities have created concern among regional allies and stressed the need for stronger defence cooperation to maintain stability in the Pacific.According to Hegseth, no single nation should dominate the region or threaten the security and economic interests of neighbouring countries.He urged Asian partners to increase defence spending and build stronger self-reliant military capabilities instead of depending entirely on Washington for protection.

“No More Free Rides,” Says Pentagon Chief

Echoing President Trump’s long-standing position on allied defence spending, Hegseth said wealthy partner nations must contribute more toward their own security.“The period of America carrying the entire burden is over,” he said. “Strong alliances require shared responsibility.”He praised several US allies, including Japan, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines, for taking steps to improve regional defence cooperation.Hegseth specifically highlighted Japan’s efforts to strengthen military preparedness and said both Tokyo and Washington must continue working together to reinforce their strategic alliance.As tensions with Iran remain unresolved and competition with China continues to grow, the United States appears determined to maintain military pressure while also pursuing diplomatic negotiations on multiple fronts.