US Defense Chief Says Military Force Against Iran Not Ruled Out

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Monday the Trump administration has not ruled out military force against Iran, as Washington launched an economic pressure campaign. Hegseth told reporters the US does not exclude "kinetic attacks" in or around the Strait of Hormuz, adding Iran could not withstand the economic pressure. The US announced sanctions on about 60 individuals, entities, and vessels linked to Iran's nuclear, missile, cyber, and oil sectors. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned countries against economic transactions with Iran, saying Washington has set a timeline for nations to cease activities or face unilateral US action. He also threatened sanctions against a major financial institution this week.