US Defense Secretary: Capable of Continuing Blockade of Iranian Ports "Indefinitely"

Washington, Aug 13 (KUNA) -- U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth affirmed on Thursday that the United States is capable of maintaining a blockade on Iranian ports “indefinitely” as long as necessary. Speaking to reporters, Hegseth said, “The U.S. Navy can sustain such a blockade indefinitely, as we will rotate ships—bringing them in and out—as we have done previously, and we will continue to do so.” He added that reports alleging poor conditions aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln were “a complete distortion of reality,” and continued, “We are committed to providing everything possible for every ship, crew, and commander at all times. It is true that some deployments last longer than others, but I hold these sailors in greater respect and gratitude than anyone else. What they accomplish at sea, under such harsh conditions and with limited port calls, is truly remarkable.” (End) R.S.R./H.S.S.