US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on Sunday that a nuclear agreement with Iran may not be reached, signaling a shift in US strategy toward military action. During an interview with ABC News, Wright stated, 'There may not be a nuclear agreement,' indicating that the US might instead focus on destroying Iran's nuclear capabilities. He mentioned that the US military's role in the Gulf region is to prevent Iranian energy exports, stating, 'We are strangling their economy to try to bring either a change in policy from the existing regime or a new regime.'

Wright also addressed the safety of the Strait of Hormuz, noting that while the US is working with Gulf nations to ensure safe passage for oil tankers, he did not confirm that the strait is currently safe. 'We’re getting a lot of ships through, but, of course, it requires the US military to do that,' he said. He added that the US navy's presence in the region is part of the 'new normal,' but he expressed hope that other nations would eventually join the effort to secure the strait.

The stalled nuclear talks between the US and Iran have been complicated by the ongoing conflict, which has seen both sides resume attacks after a brief pause. Wright acknowledged that the US is still in a conflict, though Vice President JD Vance described it as a 'military conflict' rather than a 'war.' The situation remains tense, with the former defense secretary Leon Panetta warning that the conflict could last much longer. Wright emphasized that the US would continue its efforts to degrade Iran's nuclear capabilities, stating, 'We’re degrading their capacity to develop nuclear weapons and, ultimately, to deliver them if they develop them.'

Despite the ongoing hostilities, the US has not ruled out diplomatic options, with Wright noting that 'an agreement may await the next administration in Iran.' However, the Trump administration's official comments suggest that the chances of a nuclear deal are diminishing. Wright also mentioned that the US would work with allies and other nations to bring an end to the conflict, stating, 'We will work in cooperation with our allies in the region.'

The situation remains fluid, with both sides continuing to engage in military actions and economic pressure. The US and Iran's conflict has raised concerns about the safety of global oil supplies, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a critical point of contention. As the conflict continues, the US and its allies are under pressure to find a resolution that balances military action with diplomatic outreach. Wright's comments reflect the administration's current stance, which is to pursue both options while maintaining a firm stance on Iran's nuclear ambitions.