US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered a series of key foreign policy statements at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, addressing America's main rival China, as well as Iran, NATO, and Taiwan.

Hegseth expressed alarm over China's growing military presence in the Asia-Pacific region, stating: "There is rightful alarm regarding China's historic military buildup and the expansion of its military activities in the region and beyond." He called on US allies to increase defense spending to counterbalance China's power.

On Taiwan, Hegseth said Washington's commitment remains unchanged but that President Trump would ultimately decide on a potential $14 billion arms sale. Trump recently cautioned Taipei against formally declaring independence from China.

Regarding NATO and European allies, Hegseth declared: "The era of the United States subsidizing the defense of wealthy nations is over." He emphasized the need for "partners, not protectorates" and warned against "freeloading."

On Iran, Hegseth warned that the US would resume attacks if a satisfactory deal is not reached. Washington is reportedly close to signing a memorandum of understanding to end the war permanently and seeks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to lower energy prices.

Source: www.aljazeera.com