Pentagon briefing: Hegseth defends Hormuz mission, says US-Iran ceasefire intact

At a Pentagon press briefing, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine outlined Project Freedom, a US operation to secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz amid tensions with Iran. Hegseth said the mission is defensive, temporary, and aimed at restoring the free flow of commerce, while warning Iran against further attacks. Caine said Iran has repeatedly targeted shipping and US forces, calling the situation “low-level but active” and confirming continued defensive engagements at sea and in the air. He detailed a large US deployment of warships, aircraft and over 15,000 troops providing what he described as localised control of the area. Both officials said US escorts for commercial vessels are already underway, with more ships expected to transit. In response to questions, they said the ceasefire remains in place but acknowledged ongoing isolated exchanges with Iranian-linked forces. They stressed the operation is limited in scope but warned the US remains ready to escalate if ordered. Subscribe to our channel: bit.ly
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