No timeframe for ending US war against Iran, says Pete Hegseth

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by David Smith in WashingtonMarch 19, 2026 at 04:02 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated there is no set timeframe for ending the ongoing US war against Iran, which began three weeks ago. Hegseth confirmed the US has struck over 7,000 targets and plans an even larger strike. The campaign aims to dismantle Iran's missile capabilities, defense industry, and naval fleet, preventing nuclear weapon acquisition. The US military is also working to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, targeting Iranian vessels. Hegseth addressed reports of a potential $200 billion funding request from Congress, while criticizing media coverage of the conflict as biased against President Trump. He emphasized that the objectives remain unchanged since the beginning of the war, with the end date determined by the president.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Congress 40% Strait of Hormuz 50% Persian Gulf 60% Israel ×260% Donald Trump ×470% Pentagon ×270% Iran ×680% United States ×580% Pete Hegseth ×590%

Keywords

us war against iran 100% military offensive 70% donald trump 70% strait of hormuz 60% persian gulf 60% pentagon funding 60% nuclear weapon 50% missile-launching capability 50% oil prices 50% media coverage 50%