Trump backs Hegseth on Iran, signaling tough diplomacy and possible pre-emptive action

President Trump publicly backs Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Iran policy, saying Hegseth and others warned that Iran was preparing to attack if the U.S. struck first and that pre-emptive action had been discussed. He claimed Iran requested a meeting and that talks are ongoing, while warning that strikes could resume if negotiations fail. He also dismissed concerns about ammunition shortages, saying stockpiles are being built up. The piece is a live blog covering multiple political developments.