US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth sparked significant debate on Wednesday following the release of a video showing him stating that the United States "negotiates with bombs" in the context of the ongoing conflict with Iran. The remarks occurred on Tuesday, March 24, during a ceremony for the swearing-in of Markwayne Mullin as Secretary of Homeland Security in the Oval Office.
The conflict, now in its 26th day, has seen an intensive air campaign that Hegseth described as unprecedented in modern military history. Standing alongside President Donald Trump, the Secretary emphasized that the administration has authorized the military to pursue its objectives with maximum force from the beginning of operations.
"The air campaign we’ve conducted was one for the history books," Hegseth declared during the ceremony. He credited President Trump with "untying the hands" of military personnel, allowing them to engage the enemy with high levels of intensity.
The statement comes amid apparent shifts in administration rhetoric. While Hegseth focused on the destructive capabilities of the U.S. military, President Trump has indicated that the door remains open for a diplomatic resolution. Trump reiterated his administration's firm stance that Iran will not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon but suggested that talks could still occur.
The Defense Secretary claimed that the current air operations have resulted in the near-obliteration of a modern military force. He framed the strategy as a necessary means of achieving peace through superior fire power.
As the war continues to develop, the contrast between Hegseth’s bold military rhetoric and the President’s mention of potential talks has become a focal point of analysis. The White House has not yet clarified if these "negotiations with bombs" represent a formal change in diplomatic doctrine or a temporary strategic stance during the active conflict.