Vice President JD Vance took to the White House briefing room on Thursday and pushed back against the idea that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is a war, even as the military continues to engage in strikes. He told the press that the term “war” is inaccurate because “active combat operations” ended months ago. CNN reported that Vance couldn’t offer a timeline on the conflict or when gas prices might drop back down to pre-war levels.
Per the outlet, this depiction of a low-grade, occasional conflict is an indication that the administration is trying to shift the focus away, especially with high-stakes midterm elections looming. Vance told the press that, “Right now, there is no active shooting.” However, reports indicate that for three straight days, the United States and Iran have exchanged fire around the Strait of Hormuz.
