Washington, March 10: Pete Hegseth on Tuesday warned that the eleventh day of the ongoing conflict with Iran would witness some of the most intense American military strikes so far, indicating a further escalation in the war.
Speaking at a press briefing at the United States Department of Defense headquarters, Hegseth said the United States would continue its military campaign until Iran’s capabilities were decisively weakened.
“We will not stop until the enemy is totally defeated,” he said. “Over the last 24 hours, Iran has launched the lowest number of missiles since the conflict began, but the United States will not relent. Today will once again be among our most intense days of strikes inside Iran.”
Also addressing the briefing, Dan Caine confirmed that the U.S. military had entered the 11th day of operations against Iran, with coordinated strikes continuing across multiple locations.
Israel Signals Broader Political Objective
Meanwhile, Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel’s campaign against Iran is aimed not only at military targets but also at weakening the current ruling establishment in Tehran.
“We are breaking their bones,” Netanyahu said, adding that the ultimate goal is for the Iranian people to challenge their existing leadership. “Our aim is to enable the Iranian people to cast off the yoke of tyranny. Ultimately, that decision rests with them.”
Mixed Signals from Washington
On Monday, Donald Trump sent mixed signals regarding the possible duration of the conflict. His comments contributed to sharp fluctuations in global financial and fuel markets, which are already under pressure due to the escalating tensions in West Asia.
Iran Rejects Ceasefire Speculation
In Tehran, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf dismissed reports suggesting that Iran had sought a ceasefire.
At the same time, Iranian strikes and missile activity have raised concerns across the Gulf region. Qatar reported intercepting a missile attack, while the government advised residents to remain indoors amid fears of further strikes.
The United Arab Emirates also said its air defence systems had been activated to intercept incoming projectiles reportedly fired from Iran.
War of Words Intensifies
Earlier, senior Iranian political figure Ali Larijani issued a sharp warning to President Trump following threats that the United States could strike Tehran “twenty times harder” if Iran disrupted oil shipments through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
“The sacrificial nation of Iran does not fear empty threats,” Larijani said. “Even powers greater than you have failed to eliminate Iran. Be careful not to eliminate yourself.”
The escalating military exchanges and heightened rhetoric have deepened
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