Washington, March 31 (IANS). Amidst the ongoing tension with Iran, America has increased its strictness on the terrorism front. The Pentagon’s latest statement said that elements associated with Al-Qaeda operating inside Iran are now the American target.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told reporters at a press conference at the Pentagon that despite military operations against Iran, the US remains focused on counter-terrorism operations.
“Al-Qaeda is still our enemy and we have many people on our target list in Iran,” he said.
He said that if someone is associated with this organization and is working from Iranian territory, he will be considered a legitimate target. If they are harboring Al-Qaeda, they will definitely be included in that list.
The comments came in response to questions about the locations of al-Qaeda leadership and the possibility that such individuals could be operating within Iran.
Hegseth also emphasized the broad scope of American goals. He said that there are many people on our target list in Iran, which indicates that counter-terrorism priorities remain part of military plans.
The Pentagon said such assessments are part of a broader US strategy to track and neutralize threats that could affect US forces and regional stability.
Gen. Dan Kane, chairman of the Joint Chiefs, indicated that pressure on Iran’s military structure continues, which could further limit the space for extremist groups to operate.
He said that we are continuing precise strikes against major manufacturing centers, parts storage sites and research facilities.
Officials also clarified that all operations are conducted as per established procedures.
“We have a number of processes and systems in place to carefully consider everything from the risks to civilians to the legal implications… and legitimate targets are always attacked,” Kane said.
These statements indicate that the conflict could expand beyond traditional military objectives to actions against non-state actors operating on Iranian territory.
–IANS
AY/DSC
