U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has publicly reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting its allies in the Indo-Pacific region against Chinese aggression. In a speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on May 31, 2025, Hegseth emphasized that the U.S. does not seek conflict with China but is preparing for war to deter it, stating, “We will stand with you and beside you to deter Chinese aggression.” He highlighted the Indo-Pacific as a “priority theater” and warned that Chinese military action against Taiwan could be “imminent,” citing China’s increased military presence and aggressive actions toward Taiwan and the Philippines.
During his first Asia trip in March 2025, Hegseth called Japan an “indispensable partner” in countering Chinese assertiveness, announcing upgrades to the U.S. military command in Japan to establish a “war-fighting headquarters” to enhance coordination with Japanese forces. He stressed the need for robust deterrence, particularly across the Taiwan Strait, and agreed with Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani to strengthen Japan’s defense posture on its southwestern islands near disputed areas in the East China Sea.
Hegseth also visited the Philippines, where he underscored an “ironclad” commitment to the U.S.-Philippines alliance, focusing on countering China’s actions in the South China Sea through enhanced military cooperation, joint training, and defense industrial partnerships.
His statements reflect a broader U.S. strategy of “peace through strength,” aiming to bolster alliances and military capabilities to deter China, amid concerns over Beijing’s territorial claims and military buildup, particularly around Taiwan and the South China Sea. However, China’s absence from high-level representation at the Shangri-La Dialogue, with its defense minister opting not to attend, suggests strained U.S.-China military dialogue.
Posts on X echo Hegseth’s rhetoric, with some quoting him saying, “Those who long for peace must prepare for war,” in response to Chinese statements about readiness for conflict, indicating heightened tensions. These posts, while reflecting current sentiment, are not conclusive evidence and should be viewed cautiously.
Hegseth’s assurances come against the backdrop of President Trump’s “America First” policy, which has raised concerns among allies like Japan about potential shifts in U.S. engagement. Nonetheless, his actions, including military upgrades and commitments to joint missile production, signal a continued U.S. presence in the region to counter China’s growing influence.
