• US claims decisive military victory over Iran following Operation Epic Fury.
• Defense Secretary Hegseth states Iran's military capability has been severely diminished.
• Tehran also claims victory, emphasizing resilience during the conflict.
• A two-week ceasefire has been established, ensuring the safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
• The US remains vigilant, prepared to take further action if necessary regarding Iran's uranium stockpiles.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Wednesday that the United States has achieved a decisive military victory over Iran following the completion of Operation Epic Fury. He reported that Tehran’s missile program has been functionally destroyed, and the mission successfully accomplished “every single objective,” including crippling Iran’s navy and air defense capabilities, thus rendering its military combat-ineffective for the foreseeable future. "Operation Epic Fury was a historic and overwhelming victory on the battlefield," Hegseth stated according to Reuters, India Times, and Al Jazeera.

In a press briefing, Hegseth remarked that Iran "begged for this ceasefire" as it found itself lacking options following the U.S. military offensive. He attributed significant influence to President Donald Trump in reaching this moment, praising the ceasefire as a "total and complete victory." Furthermore, the U.S. remains committed to monitoring Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles, stating, “We’re watching it... and we’ll take it if we have to,” suggesting that military action could be employed if necessary, as reported by Reuters and Al Jazeera.

Tehran, on the other hand, declared its own victory, suggesting that it successfully endured despite the onslaught. The Islamic Republic stated that its leadership had made significant diplomatic gains, including the acceptance of a ten-point proposal by Washington, framing it as a testament to their resilience during the conflict. The Iranian Supreme National Security Council encouraged unity among its citizens and emphasized the need for vigilance as they adapt to the new dynamics post-ceasefire, as documented by India Times and Al Jazeera.

The ceasefire includes provisions for the safe transit of vessels through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, with Tehran indicating a potential reopening of the waterway. Meanwhile, Hegseth confirmed that U.S. military forces would remain in the region to enforce compliance with the ceasefire and monitor Iran’s actions, illustrating a sustained tactical presence in the Middle East, according to Reuters, India Times, and Al Jazeera.