Energy secretary says US might not reach nuclear agreement with Iran

Key Points:

• US Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated that the US may not reach a nuclear agreement with Iran to prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons, suggesting military action or waiting for a new Iranian administration as alternatives.
• Wright emphasized the US military's role in the Gulf is primarily to halt Iranian energy exports to pressure for policy change or regime change, while maintaining diplomatic outreach remains open.
• On the safety of the Strait of Hormuz for oil tankers, Wright said ships can transit safely only with US Navy escort, and the US military presence in the region is necessary but may eventually involve cooperation with other nations.
• Wright confirmed the ongoing conflict with Iran, describing it as a "conflict" rather than a full-scale war, with nuclear and diplomatic talks stalled after a failed interim agreement in June.
• US political figures differ on terminology, with some calling it a military conflict rather than a war, and a senator indicating the conflict is unlikely to end before November.