Pentagon maintains aggressive Iran blockade

The Department of Defense clarified that while the Strait of Hormuz remains open to international traffic, all shipping entering or exiting Iranian ports is being actively intercepted.

Secretary Hegseth warned the Iranian leadership to 'choose wisely' between a negotiated settlement and the continued destruction of their energy infrastructure.

Over 10,000 American troops are currently deployed to support the operation, which aims to choke off the clerical regime's economic base.

The Pentagon remains 'locked and loaded' to resume active combat operations should the current ceasefire fail to produce a lasting agreement.