Hegseth Declares US Winning Against Iran Amid Intensified Strikes

Is the United States winning its military campaign against Iran?

According to Pete Hegseth, the United States is indeed ‘winning’ in the fight against Iran. He stated that today marks the ‘most intense day’ of US strikes inside Iran, as the military operation enters its 11th day.

Concrete evidence supports Hegseth’s assertion. Since the beginning of the US military campaign, ballistic missile attacks from Iran have diminished by 90%, and the US has struck over 5,000 targets across the country. Additionally, more than 50 Iranian naval vessels have been destroyed during this operation.

Hegseth has accused Iran of using schools and hospitals as cover for missile launches, highlighting the complexities of the conflict. The US military has responded with significant firepower, deploying dozens of 2,000lb GPS-guided penetrating weapons on missile launchers.

In a broader context, the US has previously claimed to have ‘obliterated’ Iran’s nuclear program following strikes on key facilities in June 2025. This ongoing military engagement is part of a strategic effort to curb Iranian aggression in the region.

Hegseth emphasized that the US will not engage in endless nation-building in Iran, a clear reference to past military interventions. He stated, “This is not 2003. This is not endless nation-building,” indicating a focused military objective.

Former President Donald Trump has also weighed in on the situation, threatening to increase strikes on Iran by 20 times if oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted. This statement underscores the strategic importance of the Strait, a critical passage for global oil shipments.

As the US military continues its operations, the situation remains fluid. Iran’s missile and drone attacks have decreased since the campaign began, but the potential for escalation remains. Hegseth noted, “Iran stands alone, and they are badly losing,” reflecting the current dynamics of the conflict.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of casualties and the impact on civilian infrastructure. Reports indicate that a recent strike on an all-girls school resulted in the deaths of 165 individuals, raising concerns about the humanitarian implications of the ongoing military actions.

As the situation develops, the US is considering further options to ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open for tanker traffic, indicating that the geopolitical stakes are high and the ramifications of this conflict will be felt well beyond the immediate region.