US-Iran Ceasefire on Thin Ice... Hegseth Warns of 'Military Escalation if Necessary'

(Seoul=News) The ceasefire between the United States and Iran is once again facing a crisis as both sides exchange hardline statements.

According to a report by the New York Times (NYT) on the 12th (local time), US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth told reporters that day, "If necessary, the US military can escalate the war (with Iran)." Secretary Hegseth emphasized that Iran must faithfully implement the terms of the ceasefire agreement, making it clear that additional military options remain on the table.

In response, an Iranian official also issued a strong warning. A senior Iranian government official, who requested anonymity, stated, "If Iran is attacked again, there is a possibility of raising uranium enrichment levels even further," effectively playing the card of enhanced nuclear capability as a negotiating tool.

The ceasefire tentatively agreed upon by the two countries has temporarily contained the military conflict that has continued since last month, but mutual trust has collapsed during the implementation process, leaving the situation precariously balanced. Following precision strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities by the US and Israel, Iran had also hinted at the possibility of restricting access for International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors.

The international community is urging both sides to exercise restraint, fearing the possibility that the Middle East situation could once again escalate into all-out war. The European Union (EU) and the UN Security Council are reportedly considering holding emergency meetings. Meanwhile, the South Korean government is also maintaining an emergency response posture to ensure the safety of its citizens and vessels near the Strait of Hormuz.