Here’s a rewritten version of your text, keeping the context and key information intact but changing the phrasing:
WASHINGTON — Secretary of War Pete Hegseth declared a decisive victory over Iran on Wednesday, asserting that the regime had requested a cease-fire after its missile program was thoroughly neutralized.
“Operation Epic Fury represents a historic and overwhelming triumph on the battlefield—a capital ‘V’ victory,” Hegseth stated during a Pentagon press briefing. “By all measures, Epic Fury crippled Iran’s military and left it combat-ineffective for years.”
Hegseth’s announcement followed President Trump’s last-minute decision on Tuesday to call off a threatened full-scale assault on Iran, just two hours before his set deadline for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
“Iran asked for this ceasefire, and that’s a fact,” Hegseth said.
Speaking alongside Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, Hegseth detailed the achievements of Operation Epic Fury, highlighting the targeting of more than 13,000 locations. Caine reported that approximately 80% of Iran’s air defense systems were destroyed over the 40-day conflict, along with major portions of the country’s ballistic missile program, one-way attack drones, and 90% of its naval fleet.
“The situation is extremely challenging for Iranian commanders trying to organize their defense,” he said. “Rebuilding major surface combatants will take years, as over 20 naval production facilities were damaged or destroyed, and nearly 80% of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure was hit, significantly slowing their nuclear ambitions.”
Hegseth emphasized that Iran’s nuclear program remains closely monitored, with remaining enriched uranium secured in bunkers. “They know we are aware, and they will either comply with the president’s terms, or we will take further action if needed, as demonstrated in previous operations,” he said.
Questions remain about safe passage for commercial shipping and oil tankers, and whether Iran could impose tolls. President Trump commented on the issue in an ABC News interview, describing joint management plans as a means of security.
Highlighting the military successes, Hegseth claimed that Iran’s missile capabilities were “functionally destroyed,” its navy sunk, and its air force eliminated. “We control the skies. Their missile program is effectively neutralized,” he said, noting that what remains is buried and largely inoperable.
While small-scale attacks might still occur, Hegseth stressed that Iran’s command and control has been heavily disrupted, making coordinated action unlikely. He concluded that Operation Epic Fury had achieved its objectives, and the U.S. military would temporarily stand down, remaining ready to ensure Iran abides by the cease-fire.
“The War Department has fulfilled its role for now,” he said. “We are prepared to maintain oversight, and as always, no one makes a better deal than President Trump. His leadership forged this outcome.”
If you want, I can also create a more concise, news-style version that’s easier to read while keeping all the major points. Do you want me to do that?
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