Vice President Vance: ‘Our Conflict is with Iran’s Nuclear Program, Not the Country Itself’
In a recent interview on Meet the Press, Vice President JD Vance clarified the United States’ stance regarding Iran, stating, “We’re not at war with Iran. We’re at war with Iran’s nuclear program.” He emphasized that the military action taken by the U.S. was specifically targeted at hindering Iran’s development of nuclear weapons, rather than engaging in a broad conflict with the Iranian state. During the interview, Vance asserted that U.S. intelligence played a crucial role in the decision to strike, indicating that the attack was not based on information from Israeli intelligence. This was further echoed by Senator Lindsey Graham, who conveyed a message of gratitude from Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu for the U.S. actions.
However, some lawmakers, including Senator Mark Kelly, expressed concern about the potential risks to U.S. troops, cautioning that the strikes could inadvertently accelerate Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The Vice President’s statements come amidst ongoing debates in Congress about the U.S. military’s involvement in the region. Several senators have called for a more cautious approach, suggesting there is still an opportunity for negotiation before further military actions are taken. Senate Armed Services Committee members underscored the importance of diplomatic avenues in addressing the nuclear issue.
Additionally, Vance’s comments reflect a growing divide within the political landscape regarding military strategy in the Middle East, with some advocating for military intervention and others urging restraint. This complex situation continues to unfold as the U.S. navigates its role in the ongoing tensions pertaining to Iran’s nuclear capabilities.