Muscat: US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has confirmed President Donald Trump’s serious consideration of using military force to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, emphasizing the hope that such measures will not be necessary.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Hegseth stated in a Fox News interview that Trump is resolute in his commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. He mentioned that if negotiations fail, military options remain viable alternatives to ensure Iran does not develop a nuclear bomb. Despite these assertions, Hegseth highlighted the United States’ preference to avoid escalation.

Hegseth also described the indirect negotiations that occurred on Saturday between the US and Iran in Oman as productive. The discussions, which took place in Muscat, involved the Iranian delegation led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and the US delegation headed by President Trump’s Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff. The negotiations centered on nuclear issues and reducing tensions between the two nations.

Both parties reported a positive and constructive atmosphere during the talks and agreed to continue them, with the next round scheduled for April 19. This diplomatic engagement follows Trump’s letter to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in early March, setting a two-month deadline to reach a new nuclear agreement. Trump warned of additional sanctions and potential military action if Iran declined to sign an agreement.