Pete Hegseth outlines U.S. Indo-Pacific vision, warns of China threat: “If you want peace, prepare for war”.
At the Singapore security summit, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth laid out the Department of Defense’s strategic vision for the Indo-Pacific region, focusing in particular on the growing threat posed by China.
Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue hosted by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, Hegseth emphasized Washington’s core priorities: strengthening military capabilities to ensure peace through strength, a return to traditional “warrior ethos” values, and rebuilding credible deterrence.
Addressing America’s Asian allies, the Secretary stressed that a shared defense burden among global partners enables the United States to allocate more resources to the Indo-Pacific, which he described as a “priority theater.”
“Our destinies are intertwined: the security and prosperity of Americans depend on the security and prosperity of our allied nations’ citizens,” Hegseth declared, reaffirming the United States’ long-term commitment to the region.
On the escalating Chinese threat, Hegseth reiterated that the United States does not seek conflict but will not be “pushed out” of a vital region, nor will it allow its allies to be intimidated or subordinated.
He warned that Beijing is “credibly preparing to use military force to alter the balance of power,” and described a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan as an event that would have “devastating” consequences for the entire international community.
“The Chinese threat is real—and it could be imminent,” Hegseth said, urging vigilance and a sense of urgency.
In closing, the Secretary outlined three pillars for restoring deterrence in the region: bolstering U.S. military presence, enhancing allied defense capabilities, and rebuilding defense industrial bases.
“We’ve made great progress, but there’s no time to waste,” he concluded, calling on partners to stand ready alongside Washington for any contingency.
“If you want peace, prepare for war. Our time is now. Threats don’t wait—and neither will we.”
Photo: DoD Screenshot
