On May 19 (US time), US Vice President JD Vance said Washington is making Iran "a very simple proposal": Accepting to never possess nuclear weapons or facing the risk of the US resuming military operations.
Speaking at a press conference at the White House, Mr. Vance emphasized that Iran cannot be allowed to possess nuclear weapons because this could trigger a global arms race.
Iran will be the first domino that could ignite the nuclear race around the world," he said.
According to Mr. Vance, the administration of US President Donald Trump is ready to reach an agreement with Iran if Tehran commits not to develop nuclear weapons.
Mr. Vance said the US is negotiating with Iran "in good faith" and believes that the two sides still have a chance to reach an agreement.
However, he also pointed out "option B", which means that the US can resume military operations to achieve its goals.
As the President just told me, we are ready to act. We don't want to follow that path, but the President is ready and capable of doing it if necessary," Mr. Vance said.
According to US officials, Washington believes this is an opportunity to re-establish relations with Tehran, but the final result depends on goodwill from both sides.
Mr. Vance's statement was made in the context of the US and Iran continuing negotiations on Tehran's nuclear program after months of tension.
President Trump recently also said he prioritizes diplomatic solutions, but warned that the US will use military measures if an agreement that Washington considers acceptable is not reached.
Mr. Vance also affirmed that Washington does not want the number of countries possessing nuclear weapons to increase, and that is why the US considers preventing Iran from developing nuclear bombs as a top priority.
Iran has repeatedly affirmed that its nuclear program is only for peaceful purposes and rejected accusations of pursuing nuclear weapons.
Tehran has not yet commented on Mr. Vance's latest statement.
