U.S. Defense Secretary Threatens 10x Stronger Strike on Iran if It Attacks Commercial Vessels

According to Yonhapinfomax, on July 21, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Iran is desperately seeking meaningful talks with the United States, claiming they want to end the conflict due to severe military pressure. However, Trump said the U.S. has no interest in talks until Iran demonstrates genuine readiness.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced the position, warning that while Iran has been given opportunities to negotiate and behave reasonably in the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. will strike 10 times harder if Iran attacks commercial vessels. Hegseth added that Iran can either negotiate or face the Pentagon.