Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Mar 7: United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has said the US is “not concerned” about reports suggesting that Russia is providing Iran with intelligence on American troop positions and movements in the region.

In an interview with Major Garrett for CBS’s 60 Minutes, Hegseth did not officially confirm the reports but assured that the military is fully aware of the situation. “We’re tracking everything,” he said, emphasising that US commanders have access to “the best intelligence in the world” and are fully informed of all communications.

Hegseth reassured the public that potential threats to US personnel are being monitored. “We mitigate it as we need to,” he added, confirming that President Donald Trump is kept updated on all developments. He warned that any illicit cooperation between foreign powers would be confronted firmly.

Reports indicate that Moscow has shared satellite imagery with Tehran, giving insights into the positions of US personnel, aircraft, and vessels. While it remains unclear whether specific Iranian strikes are linked directly to Russian data, recent drone attacks by Iran, including one in Kuwait that killed six US service members, have raised concerns.

The report also noted possible Chinese involvement, with Beijing reportedly preparing financial aid and missile components for Iran. However, Hegseth described Russia and China as “not really a factor” in the ongoing conflict, despite growing military cooperation between Russia and Iran in missile and drone technology over the past three years.

Currently, the US military operation against Iran involves over 50,000 troops, 200 fighter jets, and two aircraft carriers, with the focus on dismantling Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities.

Hegseth described Iran’s missile and drone program as a “shield” to further its nuclear ambitions.