The Trump administration in the United States emphasized that the airstrike aimed at Iran's nuclear facilities was necessary to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. The administration's position is that if Iran shows sincerity and comes to the negotiating table, negotiations could be possible as early as tomorrow.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. /Courtesy of Yonhap News Agency

On the 22nd (local time), Vice President J.D. Vance stated in an interview with ABC News that "we are at war with Iran's nuclear program."

Vice President Vance warned, "I hope Iran chooses the wise path of dismantling its nuclear weapons program," adding that "if Iran chooses to attack our troops or continues attempting to produce nuclear weapons, we will respond with overwhelming force."

He also sought to dismiss concerns that the United States could become mired in a war in the Middle East.

He explained, "We have taken a very narrow and limited approach to destroy Iran's nuclear program," stating that "the president is more concerned than anyone about the prolonged nature of military conflict."

Pete Hegseth, Minister of National Defense, hinted that negotiations could take place if Iran cooperates.

Minister Hegseth said, "We are giving Iran every chance to come to the (negotiation) table by directly conveying public and private messages through various channels," adding that "Iran knows specifically what actions are necessary to allow for the U.S. position and peace."

Meanwhile, Marco Rubio, the Minister of State, also expressed a willingness for negotiations. In an interview with Fox News, he stated, "The United States is ready to negotiate as early as tomorrow if Iran wants to," warning that "if Iran continues to seek to be a nuclear weapons state, its regime will be in jeopardy."

Concerns continue to be raised in political circles that the United States may become embroiled in a protracted conflict.

Jim Himes, a Democratic member of the House Intelligence Committee, stated, "The president has taken a huge gamble," adding that "military intervention in the Middle East tends to end up in the worst-case scenarios."

Criticism is also emerging within the Republican Party. Representative Thomas Massie remarked, "President Trump is fighting Iran, which does not directly threaten the United States," stating that "we are tired of all these wars."

In response, President Trump strongly criticized, saying that "MAGA (Make America Great Again) supporters should distance themselves from pathetic losers like Thomas Massie."