US ‘Ironclad’ Blockade Has Put Real Pressure On Iran, Says Defence Secretary

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has asserted that Washington’s “ironclad” blockade and economic pressure campaign against Iran have placed significant pressure on Tehran amid ongoing regional tensions and diplomatic negotiations.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Hegseth said the United States remains prepared to continue both military and economic measures if talks with Iran fail to produce a meaningful agreement.

US officials claim the blockade targeting Iranian ports and maritime trade routes has severely disrupted Iran’s economy and restricted key revenue flows linked to the country’s energy exports.

The Pentagon has maintained that the operation is aimed at pressuring Iran to return to negotiations over its nuclear programme and regional security concerns, while also ensuring freedom of navigation in strategic waterways.

Iran has repeatedly condemned the blockade, calling it illegal and accusing Washington of escalating tensions in the Gulf region through economic warfare and military intimidation.

Analysts say the continued standoff highlights the fragile state of diplomacy between Tehran and Washington, with both sides balancing negotiation efforts against escalating strategic pressure.