U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth delivered a forceful message on January 5, 2026, declaring that the Trump administration is restoring a level of military deterrence so decisive that America’s enemies “will not dare to test us.” Speaking on the direction of U.S. national security policy, Hegseth framed the moment as a sharp break from years of weakness and hesitation that emboldened hostile regimes and terrorist organizations.

Hegseth emphasized that deterrence under President Trump is being rebuilt through clarity, strength, and action rather than ambiguity and restraint. He argued that the United States is once again projecting power in a way that leaves no doubt about its willingness to defend its interests, allies, and sovereignty. According to the defense secretary, deterrence must be “absolute and unquestioned” to prevent conflict before it begins.

In his remarks, Hegseth directly criticized the Biden administration’s foreign policy record, pointing to the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, the failure to deter Iran-backed aggression, and repeated Houthi attacks on global shipping lanes. He also cited the administration’s handling of the Israel–Hamas war as an example of mixed signals that weakened American credibility and placed unnecessary strain on key allies, including Israel.

By contrast, Hegseth highlighted recent operations as proof that U.S. deterrence has been restored. He pointed to the “Midnight Hammer” strikes against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure as a decisive blow to Tehran’s ambitions, sending a clear message that the United States will not tolerate nuclear escalation. He also referenced a high-risk special operations raid in Caracas, Venezuela, as further evidence that America is once again willing and able to act decisively beyond its borders.

Hegseth stressed that these actions are not about seeking war, but about preventing it. By demonstrating strength and resolve, he argued, the Trump administration is reducing the likelihood of conflict by removing any illusion among adversaries that the United States can be intimidated, delayed, or ignored.

The defense secretary concluded by reaffirming America’s commitment to its allies, particularly Israel, stating that credible deterrence is essential to regional stability and global security. Under President Trump’s leadership, Hegseth said, the United States is once again a nation whose warnings carry weight — and whose resolve is no longer in question.