Hegseth: "Operation to eliminate Iran’s nuclear weapons…not an endless war"

As the United States steps up a large-scale military operation against Iran, it has been reported that President Trump gave final approval for the operation on the 28th (local time).

On the 2nd, overseas economy breaking-news channel Walter Bloomberg, citing a top U.S. military officer, said President Trump issued final approval for the Iran operation with “no aborts.”

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said, “The objective of this operation is to destroy Iran’s nuclear weapons,” adding, “Iran will never be allowed to possess nuclear weapons.” He also said, “This is not an endless war; it is not Iraq, and it is not Afghanistan.” He went on to note, “This operation will include casualties.”

Cain, the top U.S. military officer, characterized the situation as “major combat operations.” He said he “expects additional losses.”

According to another report, the U.S. military used B-1 bombers to strike ballistic-missile launch sites inside Iran. Airstrikes have continued for a third day.

Iran’s attacks forced Saudi Arabian oil refining facilities to halt operations, and Qatar reportedly suspended liquefied natural gas (LNG) production. The U.S. military reported losing three fighter jets in Kuwait due to a friendly-fire incident.

JPMorgan said the escalation involving Iran challenges the outlook for a weaker dollar, and recommended tactically reducing long positions in the euro/dollar (EUR/USD) on the day.

Secretary Hegseth said, “We will conclude this operation under America First conditions.”