Vice President-elect JD Vance warned on the 16th that a U.S. withdrawal from the Middle East would trigger a “global energy crisis,” as Iran would continue to attack commercial shipping targets.
According to Fox News, Vance stated during a speech at the “All-in Summit” in Los Angeles that day: “To those who are frustrated right now, I would say: the alternative is for the U.S. to tell the Middle East, ‘You’re on your own.’ As long as Iran continues firing on commercial shipping vessels, a global energy crisis is inevitable—and we know for a fact that they would do exactly that.”
He further noted, “President Trump wants the U.S. to avoid getting entangled in foreign affairs, yet he has also pledged to ensure Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons. I believe that desiring to stay out of foreign conflicts does not preclude the use of force to achieve American objectives.”
Vance pointed out that the U.S. has “effectively destroyed” Iran’s nuclear program and conventional military capabilities, yet Iranian forces continue to target commercial shipping—”even during peace talks.”