WASHINGTON: The White House has rejected speculation that recent comments by U.S. Vice President JD Vance hinted at a potential nuclear strike on Iran, as military and diplomatic tensions intensify ahead of a critical deadline set by President Donald Trump.
The clarification followed remarks by Vance suggesting the U.S. possesses capabilities it has “not yet used,” which sparked widespread interpretation about possible escalation. Officials swiftly dismissed such claims, stressing that no reference to nuclear options had been made.
The response came after targeted U.S. strikes on military sites at Kharg Island early Tuesday. According to officials, the operations were limited and deliberately avoided energy infrastructure, underscoring Washington’s intent to contain escalation.
Speaking during a visit to Budapest, Vance reiterated that the strikes were part of an ongoing strategy rather than a shift in policy. He emphasized that critical infrastructure would remain off-limits unless Iran failed to engage diplomatically.
The developments unfold as Trump’s deadline for Tehran approaches, with Washington demanding curbs on Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz a vital global oil transit route. The U.S. president has warned of severe consequences if no agreement is reached.
Iran has responded with defiance, refusing to reopen the strait and warning of retaliatory action against infrastructure in Gulf states aligned with Washington. The standoff has heightened concerns in global markets over potential disruptions to energy supplies.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council is preparing to vote on a resolution aimed at protecting commercial shipping through the waterway, though diplomatic sources say the proposal has been weakened following objections from China.
On the ground, hostilities continue to escalate. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed strikes targeting transport infrastructure in Iran, alleging their use by military forces, though no evidence was publicly provided.
With diplomacy under strain and military activity expanding, fears of a broader regional conflict continue to grow as the deadline draws near.
