U.S. defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that Iran would again face a military response if it fails to comply with a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on ending the war that is close to being concluded with the United States. He also hinted at the possibility that U.S. forces could be directly involved in handling Iran's enriched uranium.
Hegseth said in a CBS interview on the 14th (local time), "If Iran does not keep the deal, it will again face war," adding, "We do not want that, but Iran will also be well aware of the damage to its military power and air defenses."
He said recent U.S. strikes on Iran affected the progress of talks, arguing, "One reason Iran came to the negotiating table is U.S. military pressure."
Hegseth said that if the end-of-war MOU is signed and a denuclearization agreement is reached, the United States would also be involved in handling enriched uranium inside Iran.
He said, "We will work with Iran to remove the material," adding, "Iran may be able to dilute it, but it will not retain it."
He added, "We will be involved, physically or otherwise, to ensure the dilution and removal of enriched uranium, and U.S. forces may take on that role."
This is seen as suggesting that a plan is under consideration to dilute about 440 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium, which is known to remain in Iran's underground facilities, inside Iran and then ship it abroad.
Reuters, citing a senior Iranian official, reported that Iran pledged to give up nuclear weapons and immediately open the Strait of Hormuz, while the United States agreed to lift the naval blockade, return frozen funds, and ease oil sanctions.
However, Hegseth drew a line under the view that Iran would get frozen funds back and see sanctions lifted immediately after the deal is signed, saying, "This deal is contingent on performance," and "No funds will be released until Iran carries out its promises."
He said, "This MOU will specify that Iran will not develop, purchase, or possess nuclear weapons," adding, "The United States will maintain the necessary military posture over the next 60 days to ensure Iran actually implements the measures it has promised."