Answering a question on the US willingness to use its military power in the Middle East, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said that his country is capable of deploying "overwhelming force" in the region amid rising concerns.

He added that all options would open if diplomacy fails to halt Iran's nuclear program, but he was also forced to rebut claims the United States has become reluctant to use force.

Austin's statement came during the Manama Dialogue in Bahrain.

The Pentagon Chief was questioned about Washington's failure to respond to last month's drone and artillery attack on a US-led coalition base in Syria.

He replied that "the United States of America maintains the right to defend itself. And we will defend ourselves and our interests, no matter what, at the time and place of our choosing.”

"And let no country, let no individual be mistaken about that. We are committed to defending ourselves and our interests and that includes our partners as well," added Austin.

He stressed that Washington's major aim is to strengthen its "unmatched" alliances in the Middle East, adding that military force remains an option with tens of thousands of its troops stationed in the region.

Earlier, Austin claimed that Iran’s behavior in the Gulf affects everyone, adding, “We will defend ourselves and our partners and our interests...”

The Pentagon Chief’s visit comes days before the resumption of talks between Iran and world powers on the nuclear deal.