Pete Hegseth announced a U.S. victory over Iran on April 8th, citing a decision by Donald Trump to show leniency despite having the power to cripple Iran’s economy.
Hegseth Announces Victory
Pete Hegseth presented updates on the Middle East conflict on Wednesday, April 8th, asserting that U.S. and Israeli forces “achieved every goal according to plan.” He described Operation Epic Fury as a “historic and devastating” military victory.
Hegseth stated that Epic Fury decimated the Iranian army, rendering it ineffective in combat for years to come.
Iranian Military Capabilities Reportedly Destroyed
Hegseth reported that the Iranian navy “lies at the bottom of the sea,” its air force “has been destroyed,” and Iran “no longer has an air defense system,” with its airspace now “belonging to the U.S.”
According to the Pentagon chief, Iran’s missile program was “destroyed,” with launch pads, production facilities, and existing stockpiles “exhausted and decimated.” He added, “They have very little left, and that’s all they will ever have.”
Trump Chose Leniency, Avoided Further Strikes
Donald Trump demanded the opening of the Strait of Hormuz by 2:00 AM on Tuesday, April 9th, threatening massive attacks. An agreement was reached just before the deadline, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announcing that ships could safely transit “in coordination with the Iranian Armed Forces and with due regard for technical limitations.”
The countries also agreed to a two-week ceasefire.
Potential Targets Spared Due to Trump’s Decision
Hegseth explained that had Iran rejected the U.S. conditions, targets would have included power plants, bridges, and oil and energy infrastructure – assets Iran would be unable to defend or rebuild. He stated that President Trump had the power to paralyze the entire Iranian economy within minutes but chose leniency.
Trump spared these targets because Iran accepted the ceasefire under immense pressure.
New Iranian Regime Sought a Better Outcome
Hegseth believes the “new Iranian regime understood that the deal is far better than the loss that awaited them,” recalling that key Iranian leaders were killed during the conflict.
He stated that the new regime had no choice and limited time, leading them to accept the agreement, knowing it meant they would “never, ever” possess nuclear weapons.