Hagel Responds to Iran Position Criticism

Says he supports tough sanctions and military response is on the table

On his second day at the Pentagon, Defense Secretary nominee Chuck Hagel is trying to set his Iran record straight, saying he supports tough international sanctions against the country in an attempt to counter complaints by critics who say he favored talking directly with the government in Tehran, according to Defense officials with direct knowledge of the nominee's conversations Wednesday.

Hagel told Pentagon staff he also believes all options in dealing with Iran's nuclear program, including military action, should be on the table, according to the officials.