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By Open Chronicle Staff with Agencies
WASHINGTON — Vice President J.D. Vance delivered a firm message regarding the United States’ ongoing military objectives in the Middle East on Saturday, stating that the war with Iran will continue for a “little while longer” until the Islamic Republic’s governing regime is effectively neutralized.
Speaking during an appearance on “Fox & Friends,” the Vice President addressed the escalating tensions and the scope of American involvement in the region. Vance emphasized that the administration’s goal is not a permanent occupation, but a decisive removal of Iran’s ability to project power or threaten international stability.
“We are not looking for a forever war, but we are looking for a finished war,” Vance told the hosts. “The operations will go on a little while longer until that regime is completely neutered and no longer poses a threat to our allies or our service members in the region.”
JD Vance on Iran: "I think you can make a good argument we've accomplished all of our military objectives. The president's gonna keep at it for a little while longer to ensure that once we leave we don't have to do this again for a very, very long time." pic.twitter.com/Dn4yWAxXKs
— Home of the Brave (@OfTheBraveUSA) March 28, 2026
The Vice President’s comments come amid intensified U.S. airstrikes targeting Iranian command centers and infrastructure. The administration has maintained that these actions are “proportionate and necessary” following a series of provocations and regional escalations that began earlier this year.
Critics on Capitol Hill have raised concerns about the lack of a clear exit strategy and the potential for a wider regional conflagration. However, Vance dismissed these concerns, arguing that “half-measures” in the past had only emboldened Tehran. He stressed that the current strategy is focused on “dismantling the apparatus” that allows the regime to fund proxy groups and develop advanced weaponry.
The Pentagon has declined to provide a specific timeline for the conclusion of hostilities, noting that “the destruction of strategic capabilities” remains the primary metric for success. Sources within the Department of Defense suggest that while the conventional military capabilities of Iran have been significantly degraded, the “neutering” of the regime’s political and intelligence influence remains a complex task.
International reaction to Vance’s statement has been swift. Several European allies called for a “pathway to de-escalation,” while leaders in the Middle East remain divided over the prospect of a prolonged conflict that could further destabilize global energy markets.
When asked about the potential for regime change, Vance remained focused on the military objective. “Our job is to ensure they can’t hurt anyone anymore,” he said. “How the Iranian people choose to govern themselves once the threat is removed is up to them, but the threat itself must be eliminated.”
The Vice President concluded by praising the “bravery and precision” of U.S. forces currently deployed, asserting that the administration remains committed to a “peace through strength” approach.