U.S. Secretary of Defense: We have destroyed Iran's nuclear capabilities... and we are working to transform NATO into a combat alliance

Hegseth: We have destroyed nuclear capabilities and are monitoring Tehran's ambitions around the clock

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth made a military surprise with his explicit announcement: "We have destroyed Iran's nuclear capabilities", stressing that Tehran's nuclear ambitions are still under precise U.S. surveillance. Hegseth criticized previous administrations for making "bad deals" that enabled Iran to finance its arms, affirming that President Donald Trump showed exceptional courage to ensure that Iran never possesses a nuclear weapon. He added: "We are now in the second month of an existential battle to safeguard the safety of the American people".

Allies and Partners: Praise for Israel and a call for a combat version of NATO

Regarding international alliances, Hegseth called for crafting a new version of NATO that returns it to its combat roots, considering the sharing of financial and military burdens a fundamental condition. He described Israel as a "model ally" that has proven its willingness to fight alongside U.S. forces, urging partners in the Middle East to make greater efforts to enhance common interests that serve the "energy dominance" strategy supported by oil sector magnates.

General Randy George: Huge investments to anticipate "future wars"

For his part, Chief of Staff General Randy George emphasized today, Wednesday, that the nature of wars is changing rapidly, requiring continuous investments in next year's budget to ensure "strategic superiority". George explained that the goal is to anticipate global technological advancements to ensure the display of U.S. power and immediate response to challenges in Europe and the Middle East, affirming that military readiness requires a comprehensive update of forces to face the risks of the current complex environment.

Rebuilding an Army "that Americans can be proud of"

Hegseth and General George agreed on the necessity of returning the "defense manufacturing base to a wartime pace", where the Secretary of Defense affirmed that enhancing industrial capabilities opens avenues for success in all fields. He noted that requesting next year's budget will enable the Pentagon to achieve the message of "establishing peace through strength" and building a strong army that embodies the aspirations of the American people under a second Trump administration.