Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Friday lashed out at American allies for not committing naval forces to forcibly reopen the Strait of Hormuz after Iran effectively shut the key waterway in retaliation for the U.S.-Israeli bombing campaign against the country.
Speaking at a press conference at the Pentagon alongside Joint Chiefs of Staff chair General Dan Caine, Hegseth implied that European and Asian countries were not sufficiently grateful for the U.S.-led war, which he called 'a gift to the world' from President Donald Trump, citing the administration's purported goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
'It's a bold and dangerous mission ... courtesy of a bold and historic president,' he said.
Hegseth's remarks echo President Trump's longstanding complaints about U.S. allies' reluctance to be dragged into war. The Defense Secretary's criticism comes as the administration continues to pressure other nations to contribute military assets to the operation, which has drawn international concern over its escalation and potential for broader conflict.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global oil shipments, has been effectively closed by Iranian forces in response to the bombing campaign. The U.S. has led efforts to reopen the waterway, but many allies have been hesitant to commit naval forces, citing the risk of further destabilization in the region.
Hegseth's comments underscore the growing tension between the U.S. and its traditional allies over the handling of the Iran situation. The Pentagon chief's characterization of the war as a 'gift' has been met with skepticism by some observers, who question the long-term consequences of the military action.
