In a White House briefing on Thursday, Vice President JD Vance made clear that the Trump administration will not impose an “artificial timeline” on the ongoing conflict with Iran. Vance explained that the United States cannot predict when Iran will cease firing at commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, and that the answer ultimately lies with Tehran.
U.S. Strategy Focuses on Energy Security and Nuclear Non‑Proliferation
“You would have to ask the Iranians when their attacks stop affecting world energy markets,” Vance said. He added that the impact of those attacks is diminishing day by day, but the United States will continue to protect global energy supplies and prevent a nuclear breakout.
The vice president stressed that the United States will not rely on Iran “behaving responsibly” or “negotiating in good faith.” Recent strikes on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz have reinforced the need for a firm stance.
Trump Administration’s Shift From Negotiations to Pressure
Following the collapse of a June Memorandum of Understanding, the Trump administration moved away from diplomatic talks and returned to a combination of economic sanctions and targeted military action. Vance highlighted the tools at the nation’s disposal to ensure that the American people never face the threat of an Iranian nuclear program and that global energy markets remain stable.
He referenced the February 28, 2026 launch of Operation Epic Fury, ordered by President Trump, which struck multiple Iranian targets. U.S. Central Command later confirmed a wave of strikes that hit air‑defense sites, radar installations, maritime assets, mine‑laying capabilities, and communications hubs inside Iran.
Clarifying the Nature of the Conflict
While some observers have labeled the situation a war, Vance described it as a series of flare‑ups rather than a sustained, conventional war. He noted that major combat operations lasted less than six weeks, but the United States continues to degrade Iran’s ability to rebuild its nuclear program.
“Since then, we destroyed, of course, their nuclear facilities with Midnight Hammer. With Epic Fury, we destroyed their defense industrial base for producing weapons and also a lot of their conventional military, and then we made it harder for them to rebuild that nuclear program,” Vance said.
What This Means for Americans
The administration’s message is clear: the United States will maintain pressure on Iran until the threat to shipping lanes and nuclear proliferation is eliminated. By keeping the conflict open‑ended, officials aim to preserve flexibility in responding to Iranian actions while safeguarding the flow of oil and gas that fuels the national economy.
Vance’s remarks come as the administration prepares for further diplomatic outreach and potential additional sanctions, underscoring a continued commitment to a strong, decisive foreign‑policy posture.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
