Summary U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Asian allies to boost defense spending to counter China's growing military power, while reaffirming U.S. commitment to regional security and deterrence.
SINGAPORE (Dunya News/Reuters) - US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has described Pakistan as a “sincere friend” of the United States, expressing confidence that any agreement reached with Iran would be positive.
Speaking to journalists, Hegseth said recent talks with Iran had been constructive and stressed that Tehran clearly understands what is expected of it.
He reiterated that Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons and said the United States remains fully prepared for military action if necessary.
Pete Hegseth said the United States stands ready to resume strikes on Iran if diplomacy fails, as negotiators from Washington and Tehran work to bridge major differences blocking a deal.
"Our ability to recommence if necessary...we are more than capable," Hegseth said. He added that Trump remains "patient" and is seeking a "strong deal" to ensure Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon.
Trump said on Friday he would convene advisers in a secure White House setting to make a "final determination" on a proposal to end the Iran war.
Hegseth also pushed back on concerns the conflict would distract from Asia-Pacific priorities.
"We can do two things at one time."
Also Read: Trump insists on red lines as Iran deal remains elusive
Donald Trump said Friday (May 29) that he was making his decision on a potential deal with Iran, though Tehran insisted there was still "no final agreement" on ending the Middle East war.
A report from Iran's Fars news agency also rebutted several key elements of Trump's characterization of the deal, citing informed sources as calling his remarks a "mixture of truth and lies".
Trump attended a two-hour meeting in the White House Situation Room on Friday, but did not reach a decision on any new deal with Iran, The New York Times reported.
US seeks 'stable equilibrium' with China in Asia
Hegseth urged Asian allies to ramp up military spending to counter China's growing power and prevent its dominance in the region, warning of "rightful alarm" over its rapid military buildup.
Hegseth, speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Asia's premier forum for defence leaders, militaries and diplomats, said a stronger, more self-reliant network of allies is essential to deter aggression and preserve the balance of power.
"There is rightful alarm regarding China's historic military buildup and the expansion of its military activities in the region and beyond," he said.
"A Pacific dominated by any hegemon would unravel the regional balance of power," Hegseth said. "No state, including China, can impose its hegemony and hold the security or prosperity of our nation and our allies in question."
The U.S. expects its Asian allies and partners to increase defence spending to 3.5% of GDP as it pledged a $1.5 trillion investment in its military, the Pentagon chief said.
Hegseth stressed allies want stability, not escalation.
"What they want, and what the United States delivers, is strength that is disciplined, resolve that is steady, and leadership that is confident enough to speak and walk softly while carrying a big stick."
Hegseth also struck a measured tone on U.S.-China ties, saying relations are "better than they have been in many years," with more frequent military-to-military engagement helping to manage tensions.
"We are meeting more frequently with our Chinese counterparts by maintaining open lines of military-to-military communication."
