Hegseth slams allies for reluctance to join Iran war, says coming days 'decisive'
The comments come as Washington questions NATO support after allies restrict aircraft access in the US-Israeli war with Iran.
WASHINGTON — US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday took aim at Washington's allies for their reluctance to join efforts to open the Strait of Hormuz, after Spain and Italy reportedly denied basing access to US military aircraft engaged in the war against Iran.
Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon, Hegseth said he had made a quiet visit to undisclosed US bases in the Middle East to meet with US troops over the weekend.
“The upcoming days will be decisive,” Hegseth told reporters Tuesday.
“The latest intel out of CENTCOM is clear: Our strikes are damaging the morale of the Iranian military, leading to widespread desertions, key personnel shortages and causing frustrations amongst senior people,” he said.
