During a press conference, U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth stated that Iran no longer possesses the capability to produce more weapons, emphasizing their lack of aerial defense and naval power, alongside the destruction of their missile bases. He claimed that Iran's missile stockpile has been reduced by 90% as a result of targeted military actions. Hegseth underscored that the U.S. efforts have effectively decimated Iran's war capabilities and expressed confidence that Iran's defense capacities will be completely destroyed in the near future, ensuring they cannot create further arms.

Hegseth depicted the current state of the Iranian military as desperate, suggesting that many of its leaders have retreated underground, comparing them to rats fleeing from danger. This portrayal highlights a severe decline in the army's morale and operational strength, indicating that they are cornered and hiding from international scrutiny and military pressure. In a controversial remark, he claimed the new supreme leader of Iran, Mojtaba Khamenei, is "injured and likely deformed," attributing this to his written messages, which Hegseth interprets as a sign of fear and desperation.

This assessment of Iran's military capabilities and leadership dynamics reflects the ongoing tensions in U.S.-Iran relations, with Hegseth's statements aiming to bolster U.S. support for military operations. By portraying Iran as weak and fearful, the U.S. seeks to strengthen its narrative on the need for continued pressure on Iran and potentially sway public and political opinion towards supporting military interventions. The implications of these comments could contribute to escalating tensions and exacerbate conflicts in the region.