US says it will use military, economic means to end war with Iran
US Vice President JD Vance has said Washington will use military, economic and diplomatic means to resolve the conflict with Iran.
Responding to a question about obstacles in negotiations with Iran during an interview with Fox News on Wednesday (5/8), Vance cited two main factors. “First, Iran is a very difficult party to work with. Second, they have a fractured system,” he said.
Vance said there are elements within the Iranian system who want the war to end soon, but there are also radical groups who want the conflict to continue.
“Our job is to address that situation and achieve the best outcome for the American people and the President of the United States,” he said.
Vance expressed hope that the conflict can ultimately be resolved, while acknowledging that the process will not be easy.
“It will be complicated and it will take time, but eventually we will get there,” he said, adding that oil prices are expected to fall and remain low.
“Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, and the United States will be in a stronger position,” he continued.
“But we will deploy every instrument we have — military, economic and diplomatic — to ensure this conflict ends with the right settlement,” Vance said.
The remarks were made amid rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz following a series of military confrontations between the United States and Iran.
Previously, US President Donald Trump said he preferred reaching a deal with Iran rather than using military force. However, he stressed that the military option remained open should diplomatic efforts fail.
“I would rather make a deal because I don’t want to kill people,” Trump said at an event in Las Vegas.
On 18 June, Washington and Tehran signed a framework agreement and began negotiations towards a final deal. However, the talks subsequently stalled due to differences over security guarantees and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Last month, tensions escalated again when the United States launched strikes on Iranian territory.
In retaliation, Tehran attacked what it described as US military facilities and equipment in several Arab countries, notably Jordan, Bahrain and Kuwait.