'The Ball Is In Their Court': Pete Hegseth Says US Not In Hurry For Iran Deal

Last Updated:April 24, 2026, 19:32 IST

US-Iran War: Pentagon chief says Washington has “all the time in the world” and puts pressure on Tehran to abandon its nuclear programme.

US-Iran War: US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that Washington is under no pressure to quickly strike a deal with Iran, signaling a harder line from the Trump administration as tensions in the Gulf continue. Speaking at a Pentagon press conference, Pete Hegseth said the United States was prepared for a prolonged standoff and insisted the administration was not rushing toward negotiations.

Read more: Iran Delegation May Land Tonight, US Expected By Sunday In Islamabad For Crucial Talks | Exclusive

“We have all the time in the world and we’re not anxious for a deal," Pete Hegseth said, asserting, “The ball is in their court." He added that any agreement would need to be centred on Iran abandoning its nuclear programme, reinforcing the administration’s longstanding demand that Tehran curb its nuclear ambitions before sanctions relief or broader peace terms are considered.

Pete Hegseth also warned that the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz was “growing and going global," suggesting expanding international participation or support in efforts to pressure Iran through one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints.

Read more: Netanyahu Says Malignant Tumour Removed In Health Update: ‘Thank God, It’s Behind Me’

The Strait of Hormuz remains a strategic waterway through which a major share of global oil shipments passes, making any military or economic confrontation there significant for world markets and regional security.

The comments mark a noticeable shift in tone after US President Donald Trump earlier this week extended the ceasefire in the conflict without specifying how long it would remain in place.

Read more: France’s Macron Says He Will Quit Politics After Leaving Presidency In 2027

In the initial phase of the war, Trump had suggested the confrontation could be resolved within four to six weeks. However, the war is now nearing the two-month mark, with no clear indication that Iran is prepared to abandon its nuclear programme or accept Washington’s core demands.

News world 'The Ball Is In Their Court': Pete Hegseth Says US Not In Hurry For Iran Deal

Read More