Washington: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a "decisive" victory in the conflict with Iran, stating that the United States reserves the option to seize Tehran's enriched uranium if it is not handed over voluntarily. During a Pentagon briefing with Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Dan Caine, Hegseth outlined the outcomes of the military engagement, emphasizing the strategic achievements and future intentions regarding Iran's nuclear capabilities. According to Yonhap News Agency, Hegseth described the success of "Operation Epic Fury," which targeted Iran's military infrastructure and thwarted its nuclear ambitions. The operation began on February 28, focusing on dismantling Iran's missile systems and military forces. Hegseth stated that the military action has left Iran's defense capabilities significantly weakened. The issue of Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles was also addressed by Hegseth, who insisted that the U.S. has precise knowledge of their locations. He emphasized that the U.S. exp ects Iran to hand over these materials, and failing that, the U.S. is prepared to take unilateral action to secure them. He referenced past military operations as examples of the U.S.'s readiness to act if necessary. Hegseth also hinted at the possibility of a military approach to ensure control over Iran's uranium, referencing previous operations like "Midnight Hammer" as precedents. The Defense Secretary made it clear that the U.S. will maintain a military presence to oversee Iran's compliance with the ceasefire and facilitate potential peace negotiations. The U.S. military's preparedness to respond to any breach of the ceasefire agreement, particularly regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, was underscored by Hegseth. He reiterated the importance of ensuring that Iran allows free passage through this crucial maritime route, as agreed upon in the initial ceasefire negotiations.