Iran "was building powerful missiles and drones to construct a shield for its nuclear blackmail ambitions" while "holding a weapon to our head, trying to deceive its way to a nuclear bomb." This statement was made by Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth.

According to Hegseth, after the 12-day war between Israel and Iran in June, the US warned Tehran of "far more serious" consequences if the country rebuilt its nuclear program. "They arrogantly refused," he emphasized, adding that President Trump, senior officials, and special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner "did everything for the sake of real diplomacy."

"The former regime had every opportunity to reach a peaceful and reasonable agreement, but Tehran refused negotiations," the minister said.

Regarding the objectives of Operation Epic Fury, Hegseth noted that intelligence was "carefully focused" on destroying Iran's offensive missiles, eliminating missile production capabilities, and striking naval forces and other security facilities.

"And then Iran will never have nuclear weapons. We are acting precisely, decisively, and without apology," Hegseth stated.