BUDAPEST, April 7 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Vice President JD Vance said on Tuesday that the United States has largely achieved its military objectives against Iran, while warning that Tehran faces a narrowing window to enter negotiations or risk further economic hardship.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in Budapest, Vance said Washington would continue efforts to curb Iran's weapons production capabilities.
Vance confirmed that U.S. forces had struck military targets on Iran's Kharg Island, but stressed that energy infrastructure had not been targeted, in line with a previously set deadline.
"The president believes this war could conclude very quickly," Vance said, outlining two possible paths: Iran could "no longer support terrorism" and integrate into the global economy, or face prolonged economic isolation.
He said the United States has set a deadline for Tehran to respond to negotiations by 8:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time, giving Iran roughly 12 hours to respond, and expressed hope for a "favorable answer" that would allow the resumption of oil shipments in the Strait of Hormuz.
Vance said Iran, following what he described as a military setback, is now seeking to inflict economic costs globally, while the United States retains the capability to conduct further strikes if necessary.
"Military force remains an option if Iran does not change its behavior, but this is not the preferred path," he added. ■