United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has said the ceasefire with Iran remains in place despite recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking during a briefing, Hegseth stated that while Iran’s actions are concerning, they do not yet constitute a full violation of the ceasefire. “We said we would defend and defend aggressively, and we absolutely have,” he said, adding that any escalation would ultimately be determined by the U.S. president.

Military officials described Iran’s recent activities as “low-level harassment,” noting that decisions on whether to resume large-scale operations would be political rather than purely military.

Hegseth emphasized that the U.S. mission, dubbed “Project Freedom,” is defensive, limited in scope, and temporary. He said the operation is focused on protecting commercial shipping without entering Iranian airspace or waters.

“American forces won’t need to enter Iranian waters or airspace. It’s not necessary. We’re not looking for a fight,” he said.

However, the Pentagon warned that any direct attack on commercial shipping would trigger a strong response. Hegseth said Iran would face “overwhelming firepower” if it escalates hostilities.

He also dismissed reports suggesting unconventional Iranian tactics, including the use of “kamikaze dolphins,” describing such claims as unfounded.

According to U.S. officials, hundreds of vessels are currently waiting to transit the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route. Hegseth said the U.S. has established a protective security presence over the waterway, describing it as a safeguard for global commerce.

He added that U.S. forces recently intercepted six ships attempting to break through restrictions from Iranian ports, reinforcing what he called an “iron-clad” blockade.