US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth struck a defiant tone on Iran — but stopped short of revealing key details, especially on Russia and China’s role. During a high-stakes briefing, Hegseth admitted Washington is aware of Moscow and Beijing’s involvement, but refused to elaborate, saying the US is “addressing, mitigating, or confronting” it. The remarks come as questions grow over whether outside powers are complicating US plans in the region. Even as the Pentagon maintains that it holds multiple military options, the lack of clarity on how Russia and China factor into the conflict raises fresh doubts. With tensions rising and the battlefield expanding, the focus is now shifting from just Iran — to a broader geopolitical contest shaping the war’s next phase.