US Defense Secretary Hegseth Says Military Prepared for Conflict with China

Tensions between the United States and China continue to rise, and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has made it clear that the country is ready for any challenge. Speaking on Fox & Friends on Wednesday, he responded to a bold statement from the Chinese Embassy in Washington.

On Tuesday night, the embassy posted on X, declaring: “If war is what the U.S. wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war, or any other type of war, we’re ready to fight till the end.”

Hegseth did not hesitate to respond. “Well, we’re prepared. Those who long for peace must prepare for war,” he stated. He stressed that a strong military is essential for preventing conflict.

To maintain peace, he explained, the US must remain powerful. “If we want to deter war with the Chinese or others, we have to be strong. This president understands that peace comes through strength,” he added.

His comments come as tensions increase, particularly in areas like trade policies and military activity in the Indo-Pacific. With China expanding its naval capabilities, the US is reinforcing its defense strategy.

Hegseth emphasized the importance of military investment. “My job as defense secretary is to make sure we’re ready. That means ensuring we have the right budget, weapons, and strategy in place, especially in the Indo-Pacific.”

China now has the world’s largest navy and is the second-biggest military spender after the US. With both nations focusing on defense, experts warn that tensions could continue to escalate in the coming months.

As global uncertainty grows, Hegseth’s message is clear—the US is prepared to defend its interests. However, the goal remains to deter conflict rather than engage in it.