JD Vance Says First Phase of Iran War Has Been Completed

WASHINGTON: US Vice President JD Vance has said the objectives of the first phase of the war against Iran have been completed, adding that the conflict could enter a significantly different phase in the coming months.

Speaking in an interview with the New York Post, Vance said the future course of the war could not be predicted with certainty, but agreed with President Donald Trump’s assessment that the conflict would move into a different phase within the next few months.

According to Vance, the war essentially consists of two phases, with the first phase now completed.

He said the first phase focused on destroying Iran’s nuclear programme, conventional military capabilities and its ability to project power abroad.

Vance said these capabilities had previously allowed Tehran to demonstrate its influence and military strength across the region.

The US vice president said the second phase would focus on ensuring that Iran does not rebuild the capabilities targeted during the first stage of the conflict.

He said Washington would also seek to maximise global stability following the war and prevent developments that could lead to further regional escalation.

Vance acknowledged that the future course of the conflict remained uncertain, but said the US administration expected the nature of the war to change significantly over the coming months.

The comments provide an indication of how the Trump administration is viewing the ongoing conflict and its military objectives.

While the first phase has been described by Vance as having achieved its goals, the second phase could involve efforts to prevent Iran from restoring its military and strategic capabilities.

The timing and duration of this next phase remain unclear, with the broader regional situation continuing to evolve.

Vance’s remarks come amid continued international attention on the Iran conflict and its potential consequences for regional security and global stability.