According to a Washington Post report cited by Israeli media, US military leaders have warned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that extending the war with Iran could overstretch American forces, depleting ships, missiles, drones, and air defense systems, and weakening readiness in Europe, Asia, and homeland security. The Navy expressed the strongest opposition, arguing current operations are unsustainable, with only a quarter of its warships ready for action.
The Washington Post reports that senior US military commanders have privately warned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that the prolonged US campaign against Iran is dangerously straining American forces. According to the report, months of exercises and operations have depleted naval vessels, missiles, drones, and air defense systems, with the Navy warning that only a quarter of its warships are mission-ready. The Air Force and Army leaders have agreed to extensions but cautioned about significant risks.
The report adds to growing internal scrutiny within the Pentagon over the sustainability of the current military posture. The Zioneer previously reported on June 10 that Hegseth had warned Iran against challenging the United States, and on July 21 that US intelligence assessed Iran could withstand a naval siege for months. The current dispatch, citing anonymous military leaders, suggests concerns over force readiness are now being raised at the highest levels.
What remains unclear is whether the warnings will translate into a change in operational tempo or a reassessment of strategy. The Washington Post report did not specify whether Hegseth has responded to the concerns.
2 developments
- DevelopingUS Defense Secretary Hegseth warns Iran against challenging America
- DevelopingHegseth says US will keep large forces in region, reinstate Iran siege if commitments unmet
- DevelopingHegseth: 'Iran made a miserable decision. Now they are paying.'
- DevelopingHegseth: Iran still has capabilities, but damage worst ever — Arabic Desk
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