Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised Vice President JD Vance’s role in the administration’s handling of the war with Iran, describing him as a central figure in the decision-making process as the United States continues its military campaign. The remarks came during a Pentagon briefing where officials provided an update on the progress of Operation Epic Fury.
Hegseth: As far as the vice president, he's an incredible member, leader of this team as well, alongside the president and the secretary of state. I can't say enough great stuff about this team, how it works together, how it provides options to the president. The vice president… pic.twitter.com/S99nShKiiF
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Responding to a question about the vice president’s involvement and media reports suggesting internal disagreements within the administration, Hegseth emphasized Vance’s importance within the national security team. “As far as the vice president, he’s an incredible member leader of this team as well alongside the president and the secretary of state. I can’t say enough great stuff about this team, how it works together, how it provides options to the president and the vice president every single day is a key voice in that, an indispensable voice in that actually.”
The comments highlighted the vice president’s role in shaping the administration’s approach to the conflict, which began with the launch of Operation Epic Fury in late February. According to Pentagon officials, the operation aims to dismantle Iran’s military infrastructure, destroy missile and drone capabilities, and weaken the regime’s ability to project power across the region.
Hegseth indicated that the White House national security team operates in close coordination as it develops military and strategic options for President Donald Trump. That process includes daily consultations between the Department of War, the State Department, and the vice president’s office as officials assess intelligence and operational developments.
Officials have described the conflict as a rapidly evolving campaign that requires constant coordination between civilian leadership and military planners. The Pentagon says strike operations continue around the clock, targeting Iran’s missile launch systems, naval forces, and defense industrial facilities.
Hegseth’s remarks underscored the administration’s effort to present a unified leadership structure during the conflict, with the vice president positioned as a key adviser helping evaluate strategic choices and policy options as the operation continues.