US Vice President JD Vance stated that the Trump administration did not aim for regime change in Iran. He emphasized that Trump never intended to make Reza Pahlavi the new leader of Iran.
In an interview published on journalist Megyn Kelly’s YouTube channel, Vance shared his views on Iran policy. He said that the Iranian people’s uprising against the current government is their own decision and is a matter between the Iranian people and their government.
US Priority Is Nuclear Program
Vance said Washington’s main goal is to end Iran’s nuclear program through diplomatic means or, if necessary, military options. He also stated that Iran must change its behavior to gain economic benefits.
The Vice President noted that uranium enrichment activities along with verification and inspection mechanisms are key elements of the agreement. He argued that if Iran fulfills its obligations, it will result in a transformative agreement for the Middle East; otherwise, Iran will not gain economic advantages.
Agreement Presented as Regional Framework
Vance described the US-Iran agreement as a regional peace deal. He said this framework includes not only Iran but also Gulf countries, Israel, and Lebanon.
He also pointed out that this agreement differs from the frequently compared Marshall Plan. While the Marshall Plan was funded by American taxpayers’ money, this framework does not carry such a financial burden.
Regional Repercussions Highlighted
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif announced on June 15 that following negotiations between the US and Iran, an agreement was reached to end conflicts on all fronts, including Lebanon. Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Garibabadi confirmed the agreement and said the memorandum would be signed in Switzerland on June 19.
Donald Trump also stated that the peace agreement with Iran was completed, the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened, and the US naval blockade would be lifted immediately. The announcement that the agreement includes Lebanon sparked debate in Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yisrael Katz claimed they would not withdraw from the areas they occupy in southern Lebanon.
