Washington DC [US], March 30: US Vice President JD Vance said the United States will continue its military campaign against Iran for an extended period to ensure the long-term neutralization of the regime's capabilities.
Speaking in a podcast interview, Vance said the objective is to prevent Tehran from posing a threat "for a very long time."
He added that while Washington has already achieved most of its military goals - suggesting some could argue they have been met - the operation must continue to prevent Iran from quickly rebuilding its capabilities.
"The president will continue operations for a longer period to ensure that we do not have to start over," Vance said, stressing the need for lasting results.
He accused Iran of continuing efforts to develop nuclear weapons and described it as an ongoing threat to US interests, acknowledging that gains made so far are not yet permanent.
Addressing concerns about rising energy prices, Vance downplayed the impact, calling it a "temporary reaction" to what he described as a short-term war.
He also emphasized that the United States is not seeking a prolonged presence in Iran, signaling that forces would withdraw once security objectives are achieved.
Meanwhile, Steve Witkoff, the US government's special envoy, said on Friday that he expected talks with Iran to take place this week.
"We think there will be meetings this week," he said at a conference in the US state of Florida.
It remained unclear in what format the talks would take place. He gave no details.
Witkoff confirmed that the Iranians had had the US' 15-point plan for a while. He said the US was awaiting a response from Iran.
Witkoff said that as part of any peace plan, Iran would have to surrender its stockpiles of enriched uranium.
He stressed that the US could not afford "a second North Korea" in the Middle East, as it could destabilize the world.
Source: Qatar Tribune