Hegseth Discusses Options for U.S. Response if Iran Fails to Address Uranium Supply

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated on CBS News’s Face the Nation that President Donald Trump has various options available if Iran does not eliminate its uranium supply as outlined in a proposed peace plan. Hegseth clarified that U.S. ground troops would not be involved in the cleanup of Iran's uranium, instead emphasizing that Trump has plans to address what he referred to as Tehran’s 'nuclear dust.' He mentioned that the peace deal would establish a 60-day period for negotiations on how Iran will dispose of approximately 440 kilograms of uranium. Hegseth did not specify what 'compel options' would entail, nor whether they would involve increased military or economic pressure on Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that discussions regarding Iran's nuclear program would be finalized within 60 days of the agreement, with the possibility of extending this timeframe. Trump has previously stated that U.S. forces could be deployed to assist in the cleanup process. He also noted that either the U.S. or China may take on this role, expressing hope for a smooth resolution. However, recent Israeli strikes on Hezbollah in Beirut have complicated the situation, leading Iran to perceive these actions as a sign of U.S. instability in the peace talks.