The White House vehemently denied speculation regarding the potential use of nuclear weapons against Iran, following comments by US Vice President JD Vance and a social media post by President Donald Trump. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the Iranian government has until 20h eastern time (7h Hanoi time on 8/4) to engage and reach an agreement with the US.

Speaking today at a press conference in Budapest, Hungary, Vice President Vance stated that Washington possesses "tools" it has not yet chosen to employ. "The President may decide to use them, and he will do so if Iran does not change its behavior," Vance said. This statement, combined with President Trump's post on Truth Social declaring "a civilization will be destroyed tonight," fueled speculation that Vance was alluding to the US potentially using nuclear weapons. An account linked to former Vice President Kamala Harris also raised similar speculation.

Responding to the circulating rumors, the White House Rapid Response account posted on X: "The Vice President did not imply that at all. You are beyond foolish." When asked about Trump's willingness to use nuclear weapons and reports of Iran cutting off negotiations, Press Secretary Leavitt reiterated the deadline for Iran. "Only the President knows what the situation is and what he will do," Leavitt added.

US Vice President JD Vance at a press conference in Budapest, Hungary on 7/4. *Photo: AFP*

Despite the escalating tensions, President Trump's latest warning still leaves open the possibility of a last-minute agreement. Vice President Vance also noted at the Budapest press conference that "many negotiations" are expected before the President's deadline, expressing hope for a positive resolution.

The geopolitical situation remains critical, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime artery accounting for 20% of global oil supply. This waterway has been almost completely paralyzed since conflict between the US-Israel and Iran erupted in late February. Currently, around 1,000 ships are stranded in the Gulf region due to the ongoing conflict.

Iranian officials have rejected Trump's ultimatum, warning that "any reckless action" by the US would plunge the entire region "into a sea of fire." Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps further declared that if Washington crosses the line, Iran would launch retaliation beyond the Middle East, potentially causing the US and its allies to lose the region's oil and gas supplies.

By Huyen Le (According to AFP, CNN)