As reported by The Times of Israel on May 5, 2026, the truce between Iran and the United States is still unclear. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth remarked during a Pentagon press conference that it “is not over.” His comments came in light of increased regional tensions, just a day after Iran fired missiles and drones aimed at the UAE and Oman.
Responding to rumors about outside influences on U.S. policies, Hegseth dismissed what he called a “false idea that President Donald Trump is somehow being influenced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.” He stressed that while the U.S. values its relationship with Israel, the decisions about military and strategic actions are clearly under American authority.
Hegseth acknowledged Israel’s viewpoint, stating that the U.S. is “thankful for [Israel’s] insights, the serious nature of the threat posed by an Iranian bomb.” He also recognized that Israel’s goals do not always perfectly match those of Washington, mentioning that Israel “might have some aims that occasionally differ from ours, but ultimately, there is just one steering the ship.”
In discussions about Project Freedom, a U.S.-initiated program aimed at aiding commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf, Hegseth made clear that “American forces will not need to enter Iranian waters or airspace.” He reaffirmed a desire to reduce tensions, stating, “We’re not seeking a conflict,” while cautioning that “we prefer this to be a peaceful effort, but we are fully prepared to protect our personnel, our vessels, our aircraft, and this mission without hesitation.”
He also mentioned that the U.S. plans to “transfer” the duty of ensuring the safety of the Strait of Hormuz “to the international community,” adding that “numerous ships from different countries are preparing to pass through the strait,” while asserting that America’s “strong blockade is fully in place.”……See More
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