US Vice-President JD Vance has said the United States remains “locked and loaded” to restart its military campaign against Iran if negotiations over its nuclear programme fail. Speaking at a White House press briefing, Vance reiterated that Washington is willing to cut a deal provided Tehran commits to never developing a nuclear weapon.
“Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Vance said, warning that such an outcome would trigger a nuclear arms race across the region. He described two paths: a negotiated settlement or a resumption of hostilities. “We are locked and loaded. We don’t want to go down that pathway but the president is willing and able to if we have to,” he added.
Vance said the US has been negotiating in good faith and believes a deal is possible, but stressed that it ultimately depends on Iran. “All we can do is negotiate in good faith and try to find a pathway that accomplishes the president’s objectives,” he said. He also insisted the conflict is “not a forever war”, noting that the active period of fighting lasted around five weeks.
Earlier, President Donald Trump said he was within an hour of ordering a strike on Iran but postponed it after negotiators reported progress. He gave Iran until the weekend to reach a deal. In response, Iran’s army warned it would “open new fronts” against the US if attacks resume, using “new equipment and new methods”.
The US Treasury also announced new sanctions on Iran, targeting 12 individuals, several companies, and shipping vessels. Meanwhile, NATO commander Alexus Grynkewich said any alliance mission in the Strait of Hormuz would be a political decision.
