On Thursday, Vice President JD Vance confidently dismissed concerns that a U.S. military intervention in Iran would spiral into a never-ending conflict in the Middle East.

In an interview with the Washington Post, Vance assured, “The notion of becoming embroiled in a prolonged Middle Eastern war is simply not on the table.”

He pointed to recent military actions as evidence of the current administration’s strategic and measured approach. Last year’s airstrikes that targeted Iran’s nuclear capabilities and the recent capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro were highlighted as examples of President Trump’s “very clearly defined” military strategies. Vance implied that any potential military moves against Iran would follow a similar, precise blueprint.

Reflecting on the geopolitical climate, Vance acknowledged the public’s anxiety about foreign engagements, especially given the “idiotic foreign policy” of the past 25 years. His comments came on the heels of last June’s strikes on Iran, a period marked by significant tension in international relations.

Despite his involvement in discussions about military engagement, Vance maintains a stance of caution regarding foreign military interventions. He described both himself and President Trump as “skeptics” when it comes to such endeavors, emphasizing the administration’s preference for diplomacy.

“Diplomatic solutions are always our first choice,” Vance stated, “but the course of action ultimately depends on Iran’s behavior and rhetoric.”

Trump has ordered a massive military buildup in the region, while negotiations with Tehran have yet to result in a deal to end the Islamic Republic’s nuclear program. 

The president has been adamant that he will not allow Iran to continue enriching uranium – the fuel needed for a nuclear weapon – vowing the repressive regime will face severe consequences if it doesn’t agreed to a deal with the US. 

Vance noted that he doesn’t know whether Trump will decide on strikes “to ensure Iran isn’t going to get a nuclear weapon,” or continue to seek to resolve “the problem diplomatically.”

“I do think we have to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past,” the vice president said. “I also think that we have to avoid overlearning the lessons of the past. 

“Just because one president screwed up a military conflict doesn’t mean we can never engage in military conflict again. We’ve got to be careful about it, but I think the president is being careful.”