Iran tells US: there is ‘no military solution’ to end the war

The Trump administration is exploring both diplomatic and military routes in the ongoing Iran situation, according to Energy Secretary Chris Wright. Despite the deployment of a third US aircraft carrier to the region, Wright declined to comment on President Donald Trump's potential escalation plans after the mid-term elections. He emphasized that Trump is "always planning for contingencies and negotiating," maintaining multiple tracks: diplomatic and military.

Wright cautioned that Iran might launch further attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure, which could exacerbate fuel price hikes. He affirmed that there are no guarantees in conflict situations. In response to the recent attack on a tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, the US administration is preparing for potential disruptions by boosting US production and refining capacities while seeking additional fuel supplies from allies. UK Maritime Trade Operations reported a tanker disruption causing engine room damage.

The G7 has agreed to release 100 million barrels of fuel from strategic reserves over four months, with a front-loaded release prioritizing diesel. Wright anticipates a potential drop in diesel prices below $6 per gallon, though he didn't set a specific timeline.

Regarding Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and the US response, Wright declined to comment on potential tariffs on China and India for purchasing Russian oil. He expressed a willingness to maintain good relations with China while pressing for an end to the Ukrainian conflict. Wright firmly stated that the US would not permit Iran to become a nuclear-armed nation, stressing that leaving the matter to the next president is unacceptable. "The world cannot sustain a nuclear-armed Iran," he unequivocally declared.