Pentagon War Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday that the United States had achieved a "decisive military victory" in Iran after President Donald Trump agreed to a two-week truce. Speaking at a Pentagon press briefing, Hegseth characterized Operation Epic Fury as a swift campaign that, he said, degraded Iran's military capabilities.
“This morning, a big day for world peace. Iran wants it to happen. They've had enough. Operation Epic Fury was a historic and overwhelming victory on the battlefield. A capital V,” Hegseth said.
Hegseth told reporters that, according to U.S. assessments, CENTCOM was able to dismantle key Iranian forces in less than 40 days while employing what he described as under 10% of America's total combat power. He credited close coordination with U.S. partners, including Israel, and said military objectives were met on plan and on schedule.
Department of War Secretary Pete Hegseth speaks during a press briefing at the Pentagon in Washington, DC.(Getty Images)
During the briefing Hegseth also said Iranian forces fired hundreds of missiles and drones aimed at the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, but that U.S. defenses intercepted the threats before they reached the vessel. “Every single one of those shots was easily shot down, miles and miles away from the Abe Lincoln,” he said.
President Trump announced a two-week ceasefire agreement with Iran on Tuesday night. According to White House statements, the truce includes Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz while broader negotiations continue. U.S. troops will remain in the region to help enforce the ceasefire as diplomatic talks proceed.
Amir-Saeid Iravani, Iran's U.N. ambassador, left, and President Donald Trump.
“A big day for World Peace! Iran wants it to happen, they’ve had enough! Likewise, so has everyone else! The United States of America will be helping with the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding that he expected economic activity and reconstruction to follow.
Trump also referenced a 15-point peace framework the U.S. is negotiating; Iran had previously proposed a 10-point plan. Officials described talks as ongoing, with U.S. forces maintaining a presence to ensure compliance with the temporary truce.
Note: The statements above reflect comments by U.S. officials and the president. Independent verification of battlefield claims may not be publicly available; developments could change as negotiations continue.
