Pentagon chief doesn't rule out Iran airstrikes after new sanctions

The U.S. Pentagon has not dismissed the possibility of "kinetic attacks" against Iran, even as Washington imposes a new, aggressive package of economic sanctions on Tehran. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth affirmed that the U.S. military is prepared to use force if necessary, especially in response to any Iranian provocations.

"If we need to use kinetic attacks, we will use them. If Iran is so reckless as to overstep or provoke the U.S. military, we will do whatever is necessary," Hegseth stated during a visit to a military vehicle manufacturer in Wisconsin. He emphasized that while economic pressure is currently the most damaging tool against Iran, the option of kinetic attacks in the Strait of Hormuz or near Iran remains on the table.

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If we need to use kinetic attacks, we will use them. If Iran is so reckless as to overstep or provoke the U.S. military, we will do whatever is necessary.

Hegseth's remarks come after a period of apparent de-escalation, with the U.S. maintaining that stringent economic penalties would compel Tehran to return to negotiations. Earlier on Monday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent unveiled "Economic Pariah," an operation designed to sanction anyone trading with Iran. This initiative targets key revenue sources for Iran, including oil sales, digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and maritime transport.

The announcement of "Economic Pariah" follows the expiration of a 60-day ceasefire and negotiation period between the U.S. and Iran, with the conflict nearing its six-month mark. The aggressive sanctions and the Pentagon's readiness to employ military force signal a hardening stance from Washington amidst ongoing tensions.

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We know that economic pressure is what hurts them the most right now, but we in no way rule out the use of kinetic attacks in the Strait of Hormuz or near Iran.