Vance says all options on table on Iran, denies large-scale strikes

September 3, 2026 at 11:41 PM1 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance said on Thursday that all options, including military, economic and diplomatic, remain on the table regarding Iran. He rejected the phrase "endless war," saying no large-scale combat operations are currently underway. Vance also accused Iran of firing on oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz and credited U.S. protection of shipping with preventing a global energy crisis.

Key Facts

Vance said all options—military, economic, diplomatic, and covert pressure—are on the table regarding Iran.
He said the U.S. is not currently conducting large-scale combat operations against Iran and has not for a long time.
Vance accused Iran of firing on oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz and said U.S. protection of shipping prevented a global energy crisis.
He said the U.S. is not currently negotiating with Iran and will not publicly detail its plans.

Iran Policy Stance

Vance, speaking at a White House press conference, said the U.S. is not pursuing an "endless war" with Iran. He said recent U.S. strikes on Iran were not "large-scale" and that no major combat operations are underway. Vance said the U.S. is not currently negotiating with Tehran and will not publicly disclose its future approach. He emphasized that President Donald Trump retains all options, including economic, military, diplomatic, and covert pressure.

Strait of Hormuz Security

Vance blamed Iran for high oil prices in the U.S. and international markets. He said the Iranian military must stop firing on oil tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Vance said U.S. protection of commercial shipping in the strait prevented a global energy crisis. He credited Trump's leadership and U.S. military efforts for keeping the strait open to tanker traffic.