Signaling a major tactical shift in the Iran conflict, US Vice President JD Vance stated that lowering oil and gas prices for American consumers—rather than halting Tehran’s nuclear ambitions—is now Washington’s top “Number One” priority. Agence France-Presse (AFP) confirmed the developments in a report released on Friday.
In an interview with Fox News on Thursday, Vice President Vance emphasized that keeping energy shipments flowing through the Strait of Hormuz and stabilizing domestic energy costs remain the Trump administration’s chief objective. Ensuring that Iran never acquires nuclear weapons has shifted to their “second goal.” Concurrently, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans to impose unprecedented economic sanctions against Tehran in the coming days.
In response to joint US-Israeli military strikes on February 28, Iran retaliated by blocking the strategic Strait of Hormuz, gaining significant leverage at the diplomatic negotiating table. Soaring global crude prices, coupled with mounting domestic frustration ahead of the upcoming November midterm elections, have driven President Donald Trump’s public approval ratings to record lows.
Furthermore, reports indicate that months of sustained combat have depleted billions of dollars worth of advanced US missile and munitions stockpiles, severely constraining Washington’s military alternatives. The Trump administration is now leaning toward a low-key economic blockade of Iranian ports rather than large-scale offensive operations. However, with Tehran holding firm on its demands—including a complete cessation of hostilities, lift of sanctions, and war reparations—the White House faces acute political and diplomatic hurdles to resolve the deadlock.
