BY | Syed Salman:
US Vice President JD Vance has indicated that the United States does not intend to remain engaged in the Iran conflict for the long term, stating that the administration’s objective is to conclude its operations and withdraw in the near future.
In an interview, Vance said Washington is focused on completing its mission without extending military involvement. “We are taking care of business, and we are going to be out of there soon,” he said, adding that the campaign would continue “for a little while longer” to ensure that the US does not have to return for further operations. He also expressed confidence that fuel prices would stabilise and decline once the situation eases.
The remarks come after President Donald Trump extended a pause on potential strikes against Iran’s energy infrastructure by 10 days, until April 6, citing progress in ongoing negotiations. Trump noted that the decision followed a request from Iran and suggested that diplomatic channels remain active.
Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a stern warning to neighbouring countries, cautioning them against allowing their territories to be used for operations against Iran. He reiterated that while Iran does not initiate pre-emptive attacks, it would respond decisively to any aggression targeting its infrastructure or economic centres.
The conflict, now entering its second month, began with large-scale US–Israel airstrikes on February 28 that killed several senior Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, significantly escalating tensions in the region.