Pete Hegseth downplays Russia-Iran intel cooperation, says US is tracking everything

Washington, DC [US]: US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has claimed that he is “not concerned” by claims that Russia is providing Iran with intelligence on troop placements and movements in the region.

In an interview with Major Garrett for CBS’s “60 Minutes” premiering this Sunday, Hegseth declined to publicly acknowledge the accusations but insisted that the military is fully aware of the situation. He stated that the US is “tracking everything” and ensuring that such information is incorporated into current military strategy.

Hegseth underlined the strength of the country’s monitoring capabilities, claiming, “Our commanders are aware of everything.” He continued, “We have the best intelligence in the world. We know who’s talking to whom.”

In response to any dangers to US personnel emerging from these reports, Hegseth informed the public that the administration is prepared to deal with any intelligence leaks. “We’re not concerned about it,” he said, adding, “We’ll mitigate it as needed.”

Pete Hegseth stated

Hegseth also stated that President Donald Trump is kept apprised of the events. “The American people can rest assured their commander-in-chief is well aware of who’s talking to who,” he told CNN.

Hegseth cautioned that any illegal cooperation between foreign powers would be met with a strong response from the United States. “And anything that shouldn’t be happening, whether it’s in public or back-channelled, is being confronted and confronted strongly,” said the gentleman.

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These words come after accusations that Russia has been giving Iran with intelligence on the positions and movements of American people, ships, and planes. CNN says that this revelation signals Moscow’s first direct involvement in the continuing battle, according to sources familiar with US intelligence reporting on the subject.

According to reports, imagery from Moscow’s advanced network of above satellites accounts for a large amount of the shared data. While the nature of the information is evident, it is unclear what recompense Russia receives for this assistance. CNN has contacted the Kremlin and the Russian Embassy in Washington for comment on the situation.

Although the Washington Post originally reported on information collaboration, it is unclear if specific Iranian strikes can be directly ascribed to Russian data. However, many Iranian drones have recently attacked locations where US forces are stationed.

Aside from Russian involvement, there are hints that China may be planning to send Iran financial assistance, equipment parts, and missile components. While Beijing has avoided direct involvement in the conflict thus far, it is still highly reliant on Iranian oil and has allegedly urged Tehran to ensure safe passage for ships via the Strait of Hormuz.

According to a source familiar with the situation, China is becoming more careful in its support. It wants the battle to end because it threatens their energy source. The CIA has declined to issue a statement, and the Chinese Embassy in Washington has been contacted about potential aid to Iran.

Despite these allegations of foreign participation, Hegseth told reporters on Wednesday that Russia and China are “not really a factor” in the war. This comes as Russia and Iran’s military relationship has expanded over the previous three years, particularly in missile and drone technologies.

Iran will sell Shahed drones and ballistic missiles to Ukraine as part of this cooperation, as well as assist in the establishment of a drone manufacturing facility in Russia. In response, Iran has requested Russian assistance in advancing its nuclear program.

Currently, the US military operation against Iran includes more than 50,000 troops, 200 fighter jets, and two aircraft carriers. CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper stated this week that the major military goal is to eliminate Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities.

Hegseth claimed that Iran has used these capabilities as a “shield” to further its nuclear objectives.