The White House refuted suggestions that the U.S. might use nuclear weapons against Iran, responding to comments linked to Kamala Harris’s campaign.
Dispute Over J.D. Vance’s Remarks and Nuclear Weapon Allegations
On Tuesday, an account associated with Harris’s election campaign accused Vice President J.D. Vance of implying the U.S. could employ nuclear weapons against Iran.
Vance’s Statements in Budapest
While in Budapest, Vance stated that the U.S. “has in its arsenal tools they haven’t decided to use yet,” suggesting President Trump would utilize them if Iran doesn’t alter its behavior.
White House Response on X
The White House’s Rapid Response 47 account on X responded, stating, “Literally nothing VP said here ‘suggests’ this (use of nuclear weapons), you absolute clowns.”
Trump’s Ambiguity on Iran Attacks
On Monday, President Donald Trump repeatedly declined to rule out any potential attacks on Iran, including strikes on hospitals or schools, noting that “very few” options were off the table.
He also mentioned having a plan to destroy all bridges and power plants in Iran within four hours, noting Iran possesses one nuclear power plant.
Vance’s Ultimatum and Economic Terrorism Concerns
During a press conference alongside Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Vance expressed confidence that the U.S. would receive a response from Iran – positive or negative – before a midnight Polish time deadline.
Vance stated his hope for a world where oil and gas flow freely, and people can afford heating and cooling, warning that Iranian acts of economic terrorism would jeopardize this.
He reiterated that the President has the authority to use available tools if Iran does not change its course.
