JD Vance Warns Against Iran Nuclear Arms Race
WASHINGTON — U.S. Vice President JD Vance has said Iran cannot be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, arguing that preventing Tehran from obtaining such weapons remains a major priority for the United States.
Speaking to the media, Vance said President Donald Trump had taken action aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons. He also accused Iran of intimidating international shipping following U.S. action, saying the situation had contributed to higher energy prices.
Vance said the U.S. administration was making every possible effort to bring down energy costs and provide immediate relief to the public.
Addressing concerns over media access, the vice president said the Trump administration was not banning media organizations. Instead, he said, outlets considered to be engaged in propaganda were being denied special access.
Vance further warned that an Iranian nuclear weapon could contribute to a broader nuclear arms race in the Middle East and beyond. He said the issue of Iran’s nuclear program therefore remained a fundamental concern for Washington.
Iran Claims Destruction of U.S. MQ-1 Drone
Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed that its forces had intercepted and destroyed a U.S. MQ-1 drone over the Strait of Hormuz.
According to the Iranian account, the unmanned aircraft was targeted by a domestically developed system as part of the country’s integrated national air defense network.
Iran has repeatedly asserted its control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz and warned against hostile military activity in the region.
Iranian forces had also previously claimed to have shot down a U.S. MQ-9 drone over Qeshm Island. The IRGC Aerospace Force said the aircraft was intercepted by an advanced air defense system operating within Iran’s integrated defense network.
Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters has also warned the United States and regional countries that any military action against Iran would face a strong military response.