U.S. Military Warns Hegseth Over Iran War Risks
U.S. military leaders have warned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that continuing operations against Iran risks undermining the overall readiness of U.S. armed forces and weakening deterrence capabilities, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. Despite expressing disagreement with the prolonged deployment, commanders have pledged to comply with orders.
Consensus
- U.S. military leaders have expressed concern to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth about the impact of ongoing operations against Iran.
- The prolonged deployment of U.S. forces to the Middle East is seen as negatively affecting readiness in other regions, particularly the Indo-Pacific.
- Military commanders from multiple commands, including European, Indo-Pacific, and Southern Commands, have formally expressed disagreement (non-concur) with the extension of deployments.
- Despite their objections, military leaders have committed to carrying out the orders.
- The Navy's readiness is under strain due to extended operations and lack of maintenance schedules.
- The Navy's ability to maintain operations is compromised, with only a quarter of destroyers ready for missions.
- The deployment of forces to the Middle East has diverted resources from other critical areas, including the Pacific.
Points of divergence
- Admiral Daryl Coddle provided the most pessimistic assessment, stating the Navy cannot sustain current operational levels due to indefinite operations and disrupted maintenance schedules. — kommersant
- The Washington Post reported that the war with Iran caused a financial crisis in the U.S. military, forcing the Navy to redirect funds meant for troop payments toward combat expenses. — vesti
- Admiral Daryl Coddle submitted a personal assessment to Hegseth stating the Navy cannot maintain previous operational support levels due to the indefinite nature of the Iran campaign. — interfax
Coverage (4 sources)
- War in Iran led to conflict between US military leadership and head of Pentagon — Коммерсантъ
- WP: US military leaders warned Heegesta about risks due to conflict with Iran — Коммерсантъ
- In Pentagon fear of US military readiness drop due to war with Iran, media report — Вести
- US military warned Pentagon chief of risks of continuing campaign against Iran — Интерфакс