US Defense Secretary Hagel: Readiness Against Iran at WWII-Level Height

American Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared that the United States stands ready to act against Iran “at a level of readiness the world has not seen since World War II.” He made the statement on X, specifying that the U.S. Department of Defense was prepared—and remains prepared—at that unprecedented level, with “everything ready for execution.”

Trump announces suspended strikes and new negotiations

Trump announced Saturday the suspension of military strikes against Iran, describing the planned operation as involving “levels of military terror and power not seen since World War II,” contingent upon reaching a swift agreement with Tehran—particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz. On Sunday, aboard Air Force One, he told reporters, “There is an agreement on Hormuz, then there will be an agreement on the nuclear issue—and indeed, one could say, on nuclear disarmament from Iran.”

Negotiations set to begin Monday

Hegseth’s remarks followed Trump’s earlier statements on the same subject. Trump confirmed Sunday that new negotiations with Iran would commence Monday afternoon. He added, “Clearly, they do not want to be attacked. They were aware of the scale of the attack because they saw its formation taking shape. Right now, we are speaking with them within the framework of negotiations.”

Separate announcement on Canada

Also on Sunday, Trump indicated plans to impose new sanctions on Canada over wildfire smoke.