U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday that the American military stands fully prepared to carry out any orders from President Donald Trump
According to reports, the orders includes those involving war or peace, amid growing speculation over possible military action against Iran.
Testifying before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Hegseth stated bluntly:
“If and when those decisions are made, the Department [of Defense] is prepared to execute them.”
The statement comes at a tense moment in global affairs, with international intelligence pointing to rising hostilities in the Middle East and renewed fears of an armed confrontation with Tehran.
However, Hegseth stopped short of confirming any finalized strike options on Iran, instead maintaining a firm but non-committal tone.
“This department does not speculate on future military action,” Hegseth added, carefully sidestepping direct questions from lawmakers about whether specific attack plans had already been drawn up.
Still, his remarks echoed loudly across Capitol Hill, signaling that the Pentagon remains on high alert and ready to mobilize under Trump’s leadership, should diplomatic negotiations fail or if retaliation becomes a political necessity.
Hegseth’s appearance was part of a broader defense budget hearing, but questions quickly turned to the president’s foreign policy posture.
Critics have warned that Trump’s assertive rhetoric and unpredictable style could draw the U.S. into conflict zones without clear strategic goals.
Democratic lawmakers pressed Hegseth on whether the administration would seek congressional authorization for any new war efforts.
But Hegseth emphasized the president’s constitutional authority as commander-in-chief, saying the military would follow lawful orders “without hesitation.”
Since returning to office in 2025, Trump has rekindled debates over America’s global military footprint.
His administration has increased surveillance over Iranian assets in the Gulf and reactivated several defense alliances previously left dormant.
Analysts say the Defense Department’s posture under Hegseth reflects both discipline and deference, aiming to demonstrate strength while staying within legal and diplomatic lines.
But with tensions still simmering, observers worry that one misstep could tip fragile peace into open conflict.
For now, the message from the Pentagon is clear: the U.S. military is locked, loaded, and waiting — for whatever comes next from the Oval Office.
