U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed Monday that President Donald Trump remains committed to securing a nuclear deal with Iran, despite rising military tensions between Israel and Tehran. Speaking on Fox News’ "Jesse Watters Primetime," Hegseth emphasized that the administration's posture in the Middle East is defensive, not offensive, and aligned with diplomatic goals.
“Of course,” Hegseth said when asked if Trump still seeks a nuclear agreement with Iran. “We are postured defensively in the region to be strong in pursuit of a peace deal. And we certainly hope that’s what happens here.”
His remarks came as the U.S. increased its military presence in the region following Iran’s recent missile activity and Israel’s retaliatory strikes. However, a senior White House official clarified separately that the U.S. is not engaged in offensive operations against Iran.
The Biden-era nuclear agreement, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was abandoned by Trump during his previous term in office, leading to renewed sanctions and heightened tensions with Tehran. Now back in the White House, Trump appears to be navigating a delicate balance between supporting U.S. ally Israel and opening the door for renewed nuclear negotiations with Iran.
This approach suggests Washington is still prioritizing diplomacy, despite the growing regional instability. The situation has drawn global attention, with questions mounting about the feasibility of any peace deal under current conditions.
As conflict brews between Iran and Israel, U.S. diplomatic strategy remains centered on preventing further escalation while keeping the nuclear deal as a long-term objective. Hegseth’s comments reflect a White House still hopeful for diplomatic breakthroughs even as military risks intensify in the Middle East.