Pentagon: US can secure interests in Iran without large-scale ground troops

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth offered a robust defence of US operations in Iran during a press conference, asserting that American objectives can be achieved without unnecessary risks or large-scale troop deployments.

“President Trump ensures that our enemies understand we’ll go as far as we need to go to advance American interests. But we’re not dumb about it. You don’t have to roll 200,000 people in there and stay for 20 years,” Hegseth said in his first Pentagon briefing since December, The Hill reports.

The Secretary emphasized that previous actions have demonstrated the effectiveness of targeted operations. “We’ve proven that you can achieve objectives and advance American interests without being foolish about it,” he added.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine provided updates on “Operation Epic Fury,” noting the rising US casualty count, now at four, and outlining ongoing operational details.

By Vafa Guliyeva