Singapore: The United States is "more than capable" of resuming war with Iran if necessary, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has warned, as President Donald Trump weighs a decision on a potential deal with Tehran.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue defence summit in Singapore on Saturday, Hegseth said Washington's stockpiles are "more than suited" for a resumption of hostilities. "Our ability to recommence if necessary is that we are more than capable," he said. His remarks echoed a statement from US Central Command, which posted on X that American forces "remain present and vigilant across the region."

The comments come as Trump considers an initial deal with Iran after weeks of tenuous negotiations. Trump emerged from a White House situation room meeting with senior aides on Friday without immediately announcing his decision. The White House has signalled that Trump will only accept a deal that satisfies his red lines, including that Tehran never be able to develop nuclear weapons. However, Tehran has denied that any final agreement has been reached.

Hegseth also addressed China's military buildup, stating there is "rightful alarm" regarding Beijing's expansion of military activities in the region. However, he said Washington does not seek "needless confrontation" but rather "a genuinely stable equilibrium" in Asia. He noted that he wished his Chinese counterpart was present at the summit, adding that he looks forward to other opportunities to engage with Beijing.

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