US Defense Secretary: The coming days will be decisive in the confrontation with Iran, and NATO has no value

Hegseth criticizes NATO allies: “Unwilling to stand with us”.. Reveals pilots returned to bomb Tehran after being downed by friendly Kuwaiti fire

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the coming days will be decisive in the military confrontation with Iran, adding that Tehran is aware of this.

Hegseth explained during a press conference that he visited U.S. forces participating in military operations against Iran over the weekend, noting that soldiers described the battle as “long-awaited and must be fought for future generations.”

The Secretary revealed that three pilots who were downed by friendly Kuwaiti fire weeks ago have returned to participate in operations, dropping bombs on the Iranian capital Tehran last night, emphasizing they never left the battlefield. Hegseth quoted an aircraft crew chief as saying the past weeks were “busy and difficult,” but he feels a great honor to be called to participate in this long-awaited battle.

Hegseth added that the new Iranian leadership must be wiser than its predecessor, noting that President Donald Trump “is not deceived and does not back down,” and is ready to make a deal on terms known to Tehran. He warned that the Defense Department will continue to intensify pressure if Iran is not ready to respond, calling on Iranian leadership to act wisely.

The Secretary claimed that U.S. strikes are damaging Iranian military morale, leading to widespread desertion and shortages of key personnel. He also attacked NATO, stating the alliance “cannot be considered of real value if member states are unwilling to stand by your side when needed.”

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