The New York Times

**Vice President Vance Held Secret Iran Talks After Opposing War**

usa middle_east defense countries politics
Vice President JD Vance recently led the highest-level discussions between the United States and Iran in almost five decades. This is notable because Vance had strongly opposed U.S. military action against Iran before taking office. The talks represent a major diplomatic step. Direct communication at this level had been frozen for generations. As a senator, Vance argued against entering a conflict with Iran, calling it a strategic mistake. Now, as Vice President, he has shifted to leading diplomacy with the same nation. The discussions focused on reducing tensions. The outcome of these talks remains unclear, marking a significant but uncertain move in U.S. foreign policy.