U.S. Now Prioritises Lower Oil Prices Over Iran's Nuclear Programme
The United States has indicated that reducing gasoline prices for American consumers is now its top priority in the conflict with Iran, ahead of preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. Vice President J.D. Vance made the remarks on Thursday, while Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that fresh economic measures against Iran are imminent.
Speaking on Fox News, Mr. Vance said that "goal number one" is to "keep oil and gas cheap for Americans all over our country." He added that ensuring Iran never gets a nuclear weapon remains "goal number two." The comments highlight the economic pressures facing the U.S. administration as the conflict with Iran continues to affect global energy markets.
Mr. Bessent, in a separate statement, threatened to subject Iran to economic isolation "like the world has never seen before," with new measures expected next week. This follows President Donald Trump's earlier remark that the U.S. is "low-keying it" in its approach to negotiations over reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital conduit for about a fifth of the world's oil supplies, has been at the centre of the conflict since it began in late February. Iran has effectively shut down the strait in retaliation, causing oil prices to surge. The U.S. and Israel launched the military campaign against Iran, and the resulting disruption has had a direct impact on American fuel prices.
Political observers note that the shift in priorities comes as Mr. Trump's approval ratings decline and the November midterm elections approach. Republicans fear that the conflict, which has driven up gasoline prices, could cost them control of Congress. Mr. Vance, who has been among the more sceptical administration officials regarding the offensive, appears to reflect a cautious approach favoured by the President.
The administration's strategy now appears to focus on maintaining strong economic pressure on Iran through blockades and sanctions, while avoiding large-scale military action. Reports suggest the U.S. military has depleted significant stockpiles of high-tech missiles and other weapons, costing billions and limiting options for resuming attacks.
Mr. Vance acknowledged the dual focus, saying, "Sometimes we're focused on the energy piece of it because we want Americans to be able to afford the price of oil and gas. Sometimes we're obviously focused on the military... on the nuclear program." The evolving stance signals a pragmatic recalibration of U.S. goals in the conflict, driven by domestic economic concerns ahead of the elections.
