By: Buhle Mbhele
United States Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth says the war with Iran could last up to eight weeks, a longer time frame than previously suggested by the administration of President Donald Trump.
Hegseth made the remarks as fighting between the United States and Iran continued following the outbreak of hostilities last Saturday. The conflict has already resulted in casualties on both sides.
According to the United States Department of Defense, six US service members have been killed since the conflict began.
Human rights monitors say the civilian toll in Iran is mounting. Reports indicate that more than 1,000 civilians have been killed so far, including at least 180 children.
Hegseth acknowledged that Iran remains capable of launching missile attacks despite sustained military pressure. However, he emphasised that Tehran would not be able to outlast American military power.
The escalating conflict has raised concerns among international observers about the potential for a broader regional war in the Middle East, particularly given Iran’s network of allied armed groups and the strategic importance of the region to global energy supplies.
