May 05, Kathmandu - US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has clarified that the US military operation in the Strait of Hormuz does not mean that the ceasefire with Iran has been broken.

He described the operation as a separate and specific project. Stating that the ceasefire is still in place, Hegseth warned Iran to exercise restraint and not to take any actions that could lead to a new conflict.

During a press conference in Washington, when asked whether Iran's small boat fleet was a major threat to the US military or just a minor nuisance, he said that it should not be taken lightly and was seen as a serious threat. Stating that the US strategy regarding Iran is very clear and focused, he claimed that the US will not deviate from its main goal under any pretext.

Similarly, when asked whether the US has backed down from US President Donald Trump's previous determination to overthrow the Iranian regime and demand for surrender, Defense Minister Hegseth strongly refuted. He said that President Trump has not backed down on anything and that the US has the decisive power and upper hand in this matter.

He also clarified that Trump has always had a clear view on not getting America involved in the complicated mission of building a new nation.