In-town pool report #5

Vice President Vance stressed the dangers of Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the importance of having diplomatic and military options to address the threat. He did not comment on his own role in negotiations. He added that american troops in the Middle East are fighting as the Christian Holy Week begins. “We're very proud of them,” he said and wished them a happy Easter.

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Secretary of State Rubio spoke next. He stressed the objectives of the operation:

Sample quote: “The President is not just doing a favor to the United States and to our people. This is for the world. He defined very clearly on the first night of this operation, what the goal was. We were going to destroy Iran's Navy. And that is happening. We were going to, if it hasn't already happened. I'll let we were going to destroy their missile launching capabilities. We're well on our way to achieving that goal. We were going to destroy the factory so they couldn't make more missiles and more drones. And that is moving forward every single objective.”

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Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff talked about the “sensitive diplomatic discussions”

adding that POTUS “directed us to maintain confidentiality on the specific terms and not negotiate through the news media as others do. I can say this, we will see where things things go” added they sell to avoid “more death and destruction.”

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Secretary Hegseth is offering his assessment: “Make no mistake, we had to act, and our objectives are clear: No nukes; no navy and complete dismantling of their missile program and defense, industrial base.” He offered examples that he said suggest Iran’s military capabilities are diminished and their leadership is on the run. “We pray for a deal and we welcome a deal. But as I said yesterday, the department of war will continue negotiating with bombs.”

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At 11:15, POTUS is now talking about crime in American cities and open borders. Secretary Bessent is on deck to speak.