Retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg advised President Trump against seeking a final agreement with Iran, suggesting instead that the focus should be on targeting Iran’s economic support systems and preparing the public for potential military action. In an interview, Kellogg emphasized the importance of reassuring Americans, saying that the conflict is far from over and that they should stay resilient.
Kellogg expressed skepticism regarding the 60-day talks between the U.S. and Iran, which were set out in a memorandum of understanding agreed upon last month by Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. He proposed that, should negotiations falter, the U.S. might consider taking control of Kharg Island, a crucial energy hub responsible for a significant portion of Iran’s oil exports.
He acknowledged Trump’s initial diplomatic efforts aimed at denuclearizing Iran but asserted that the current talks are unlikely to shift the behavior of the Iranian administration, which he believes uses negotiations merely to buy time.
According to Kellogg, “They think differently.” He noted that Iran views negotiation as a strategic tool, which is not quite how the U.S. approaches it.
As discussions about potentially escalating military actions continue, President Trump has temporarily opted for diplomacy. Reports indicated that he has considered abandoning peace talks in favor of military strikes but currently sees negotiations as the best way to deal with Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
A U.S. official communicated that Trump is aware of the negotiation process and is ready to shift away if there’s no sign of progress. The official expressed a desire for constructive discussions but also indicated that the option of returning to conflict remains open.
Kellogg highlighted the Iranian regime’s control over the Strait of Hormuz and expressed doubt that diplomacy would succeed under the governance of hard-liners. He pointed out that once military actions are initiated, there’s no turning back—it’s not like being “half pregnant,” as he metaphorically put it.
He encouraged Trump to directly address the risks associated with regime change, stating that this could halt Iran’s nuclear process and safeguard global trade, as well as fulfill the objectives initially set by the U.S.
Kellogg referred to various issues, including the ongoing control of the Strait of Hormuz, which could lead to rising prices, and underscored that nuclear states are “treated differently.” He contended that reducing Iran’s economic power would be a more effective strategy than extensive airstrikes.
“We’re essentially signaling to the Iranian people that their economy could face dire straits,” he remarked.
Trump himself has mentioned wanting to seize Kharg Island, though he expressed uncertainty about whether the American public would support such an action.
White House press secretary Olivia Wales commended Trump’s achievements on both the battlefield and at the negotiating table, maintaining that they would bolster national security for the future. She noted significant military and economic pressure placed on Iran within a short timeframe, highlighting improvements in oil and gas prices under Trump’s leadership.
