The United States has warned that Russia should avoid becoming involved in the ongoing conflict with Iran, as Washington continues its military campaign known as Operation Epic Fury.
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth made the remarks on Tuesday following a recent phone conversation between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
According to Hegseth, Trump described the conversation with Putin as constructive. The US president maintains communication with several world leaders, which Hegseth said helps create diplomatic opportunities during rapidly evolving global crises.
Although Hegseth was not part of the call, he said those who participated described it as a strong discussion. The conversation reportedly touched on the possibility of peace in the Russia–Ukraine conflict and included a clear message that Russia should not interfere in the current confrontation with Iran.
US Claims Military Advantage in Iran Operation
During a briefing at the Pentagon, Hegseth said the United States believes it is gaining the upper hand in the campaign against Iran, which has now entered its eleventh day. He stated that American forces are conducting large-scale air operations aimed at weakening Iranian military capabilities.
The defense chief said the day’s operations would involve the highest number of aircraft, including fighter jets and bombers, since the campaign began. Intelligence gathering, he added, has also become increasingly precise.
Hegseth claimed that Iran has recently launched fewer missiles than expected, which he described as a sign that Tehran’s military infrastructure is being significantly damaged.
“This Is Not 2003,” Pentagon Says
Addressing comparisons with past US military interventions, Hegseth rejected suggestions that the current operation could turn into a prolonged conflict similar to the Iraq war.
“This is not 2003,” he said, referring to the 2003 invasion of Iraq. He emphasized that the US military does not intend to engage in long-term nation-building efforts, describing the current strategy as a focused mission designed to achieve specific objectives set by the president.
US Soldier Dies After Saudi Base Strike
Meanwhile, the Pentagon confirmed the death of a US soldier who had been supporting the operation. Army Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, from Glendale, Kentucky, died from injuries sustained during a strike on Prince Sultan Air Base.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine paid tribute to the soldier, recalling a meeting with Pennington’s family during a dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base.
Caine said the family had shown him a drawing Pennington made as a child, which illustrated his dream of becoming a soldier and serving his country.
Pennington became the seventh American service member to die while supporting Operation Epic Fury.
Trump Praises Early Results of Operation
President Trump has expressed confidence in the military campaign, saying the results so far have exceeded expectations. The operation began on February 28 and targeted Iran’s leadership and military infrastructure.
The strikes reportedly resulted in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, a development that significantly escalated tensions in the region.
Despite the intensifying conflict, US officials say the campaign will continue according to Washington’s strategic timeline.
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