US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth emphasized that the United States is "not looking for a fight" in the Strait of Hormuz during a press briefing at the Pentagon. He warned Iran that any attack on commercial shipping or US forces would provoke a strong and devastating response. Hegseth stated, "If you attack American troops or innocent commercial shipping, you will face overwhelming and devastating American firepower." He assured that US forces would not enter Iranian waters or airspace as part of this operation. The remarks come amid heightened tensions, with US President Donald Trump previously warning that Iran would face severe consequences if they attacked US vessels in the region. Trump highlighted the readiness of US military installations worldwide, asserting that they are fully equipped to address any Iranian threats.