U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has strongly defended the American military campaign against Iran, describing the operation as an unprecedented success while criticizing news organizations for what he called insufficiently positive coverage. Speaking at a Pentagon press conference, Hegseth argued that the United States and its allies had inflicted extensive damage on Iran’s military infrastructure during nearly two weeks of sustained air and missile strikes.
The remarks came amid ongoing regional tensions and continued Iranian retaliatory attacks. Hegseth used the briefing not only to outline the Pentagon’s assessment of the campaign but also to challenge journalists over how the conflict has been portrayed in the media.
Scope of the U.S. Military Campaign
Hegseth said the United States and Israel had conducted a large-scale aerial campaign against Iranian military assets over a 13-day period. According to the Pentagon’s assessment, more than 15,000 targets have been struck since the conflict began, including missile complexes, air bases, and naval facilities.
Pete Hegseth told reporters the attacks had severely degraded Iran’s military capabilities, particularly its air force, naval operations, and missile defense systems. He described the effort as a decisive blow to Iran’s military infrastructure.
Independent analysts have confirmed that numerous facilities linked to Iranian missile and naval operations have sustained heavy damage. Satellite imagery reviewed by research groups indicates significant destruction at several military sites across Iran.
Hegseth Claims of Strategic Gains and Ongoing Fighting
Despite the Pentagon’s optimistic assessment, the conflict has not fully subsided. Iranian state media reports that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) continues to launch missiles and drones targeting U.S. installations in Gulf countries as well as sites in Israel.
Hegseth nevertheless maintained that Iran’s ballistic missile production capacity had been “functionally defeated.” He suggested the pressure from the strikes had forced Iranian leadership into defensive positions.
However, public appearances by several senior Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, Security Chief Ali Larijani, and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, indicated that the country’s political leadership remains active. The officials were seen participating in Tehran’s annual Quds Day rally.
Questions Surrounding Iranian Leadership
During the briefing, Hegseth also claimed that Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, had been injured during the conflict and may have suffered lasting physical damage. The claim has not been independently verified by international observers.
Mojtaba Khamenei assumed the leadership position earlier in March following the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His appointment by Iran’s Assembly of Experts marked a significant shift in the country’s leadership during a period of heightened military confrontation.
Analysts note that conflicting information surrounding the status of Iran’s leadership has become common during the war, as both sides attempt to control the narrative around battlefield developments.
Investigation into Civilian Casualties
The Pentagon has also confirmed that a formal investigation is underway into an airstrike that reportedly struck a girls’ school in Iran, killing at least 175 people. Hegseth said the investigation is being led by a general from outside U.S. Central Command in order to ensure independence.
While the Hegseth acknowledged the probe, he did not provide details about the preliminary findings. Early reports from investigators have suggested that U.S. forces were responsible for the bombing of the school.
The incident has raised renewed concerns among humanitarian organizations about civilian casualties and the broader humanitarian impact of the conflict.
Military Technology and Strategic Developments
At the same press conference, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, revealed that the United States had deployed a new class of precision strike missiles during the operation. According to Caine, the weapons were used in combat for the first time.
The missiles are designed to travel longer distances and strike targets with greater accuracy than previous systems. Military officials say the technology allowed U.S. forces to reach deeper into Iranian territory while limiting risks to aircraft and personnel.
Defense analysts say the deployment signals the Pentagon’s continued investment in advanced long-range weapons capable of operating in heavily defended regions.
Dispute Over Media Coverage
A significant portion of Hegseth’s remarks focused on criticism of journalists covering the conflict. The defense secretary accused news organizations of failing to highlight what he considers major military achievements.
He questioned how television networks were framing their coverage and suggested that headlines should focus on what he described as Iran’s weakening position. Hegseth specifically mentioned the network CNN, expressing hope that future ownership changes might alter its editorial direction.
Some journalists also reported being denied entry to the briefing, including print photographers. According to reports, officials restricted access after certain published images of Hegseth were considered unflattering.
Strategic Concerns Over the Strait of Hormuz
Despite claims of operational success, the Pentagon acknowledged that the Strait of Hormuz remains partially closed to commercial shipping. The waterway is one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes.
Iran has reportedly targeted vessels in the region, creating security risks for international shipping. U.S. naval forces have not yet begun escort operations for commercial vessels moving through the area.
Hegseth rejected suggestions that the United States had been unprepared for Iran’s actions, stating that the route remains open provided Iranian forces cease attacks on ships.
Appeal to National Support
Hegseth concluded the briefing with a call for national unity and support for U.S. service members involved in the conflict. He urged Americans to keep troops in their prayers and expressed gratitude for their service.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to the institutions he serves, stating that his responsibilities include serving the troops, the U.S. Constitution, the country, and the current administration led by President Donald Trump, who is serving a second term as president of the United States.
The ongoing conflict continues to draw international attention, with governments, analysts, and humanitarian groups closely monitoring both the military and political developments in the region.
