Vice-president says U.S. close to Iran peace deal after helicopter downing

Vice-president JD Vance said the United States is very close to a peace deal with Iran that could be reached before the midterm elections. He added that the agreement could occur within a week or several months. In a CBS interview scheduled to air later this week, Vance stated the deal would address the Iranian nuclear program for the long term.

He said the goal is to ensure Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon.

Strikes follow helicopter incident U.S.

Central Command announced self-defense strikes on Iran after the downing of an army helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. The command described the mission as a proportional response to Iranian aggression. Earlier the same day, the president wrote that the United States must respond to the attack but also noted a good chance of signing a deal within two or three days.

Background of the conflict The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran began in February and has included Iranian retaliatory strikes, a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, and higher global energy costs. Iran’s parliamentary speaker said U.S. bases have become legitimate targets after recent strikes.

The secretary of state outlined demands for severe, long-term limits on Iran’s nuclear program during congressional testimony last week. Iran has stated that talks continue but no final agreement has been reached.