'Operation Economic Outcast': EU joins Trump's campaign to squeeze Iran

US Vice President JD Vance revealed on Thursday that the Trump administration has a range of options for dealing with Iran, including economic, military, diplomatic, and covert pressure, as the ongoing conflict between the two nations continues to escalate. During a media briefing, Vance emphasized that the administration would not disclose its plans to avoid revealing the President's flexibility in responding to Iran.

He mentioned that all possible actions are on the table and that economic, military, diplomatic, and covert pressures are among the tools in the President's toolkit. Vance highlighted the threat of a global energy crisis due to Iran's continued attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, supporting US military operations aimed at protecting commercial vessels and maintaining oil and gas supplies.

The Vice President declined to outline specific actions the administration might take in the coming months, stating that maintaining some uncertainty was essential. Trump's decision to potentially declare the war over is influenced by the approaching midterm elections and the persistent high energy prices resulting from the conflict.

The Pentagon has extended troop deployments in West Asia, suggesting a prolonged military confrontation into the next year. Despite ongoing disagreements and misalignments with China, Vance praised Beijing's willingness to cooperate with the US in economically isolating Iran, accusing Tehran of launching attacks on commercial shipping vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.