Will Pete Hegseth Be Soft on Iran?

Pete Hegseth’s potential appointment as Secretary of Defense under a second Trump administration has raised questions about his stance on Iran. Known for his hardline views on military readiness and national security, Hegseth is unlikely to adopt a "soft" approach to Tehran. His background as a military veteran, his advocacy for U.S. interventionist policies, and his outspoken criticism of the Obama-era Iran nuclear deal suggest that he would continue a tough stance against Iran.

Hegseth’s time as a counterinsurgency officer in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as his role as executive director of Vets for Freedom, has shaped his worldview, emphasizing military strength and aggressive policies. He has long criticized the Iran nuclear deal, viewing it as a dangerous concession to the Islamic Republic. His views on military effectiveness, where he champions a lethal and uncompromising military, suggest that he would favor policies that directly confront Iranian actions, especially those seen as destabilizing the Middle East.

One key area where Hegseth has shown his approach to military engagement is his lobbying for the pardons of U.S. service members accused of war crimes. This demonstrates his belief in a strong defense posture and a willingness to defend U.S. military actions abroad, even in controversial circumstances. If Hegseth were to lead the Pentagon, this could translate into more aggressive actions against Iranian-backed militias and other Iranian interests in the region.

Hegseth’s stance on Iran would likely center around continued military deterrence, economic sanctions, and support for U.S. allies in the Middle East, such as Israel and Saudi Arabia. He may also be more inclined to use military force or proxy warfare to counter Iran’s regional influence, rather than seeking diplomatic solutions or engaging in negotiations like the previous administration.

In short, if Hegseth were appointed as Secretary of Defense, his policies toward Iran would likely mirror the hardline, maximum pressure approach of the Trump administration. He would prioritize military readiness, regional alliances, and measures to counter Iranian nuclear ambitions and proxy warfare, rather than pursuing softer diplomatic paths. His focus on military strength and deterrence would ensure that U.S. policy remains confrontational, rather than conciliatory, toward Tehran.