As tensions with Iran continue to escalate, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz made one thing clear: nothing is off the table. And yes—that includes potential strikes on nuclear and energy infrastructure.
Speaking on Face the Nation, Waltz emphasized that the Trump administration is keeping every option available as it works to counter Iran’s growing threats. “I would never take anything off the table for the president,” he said—translation: if it’s necessary, it’s being considered.
Waltz pointed specifically to major Iranian facilities, including large power plants near Tehran and other cities, noting their strategic importance. He also highlighted the role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), describing it as a terrorist organization that controls vast portions of Iran’s infrastructure, economy, and governing systems.
In other words, when you’re dealing with a regime where military and civilian systems are deeply intertwined, the line between “infrastructure” and “strategic targets” gets a lot blurrier.
His comments come as President Donald Trump continues to pressure Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. Trump has already warned that failure to comply could lead to direct U.S. action—including strikes on key Iranian assets.
Waltz reinforced that message, stating the administration will continue targeting Iran’s military capabilities, including missiles, naval forces, and drones. The goal? Reduce Iran’s ability to threaten the region and global energy stability.
And it’s not just the U.S. taking notice.
Waltz pointed to growing support from allies, including European nations and Japan, to help secure international shipping routes. Because when a single chokepoint controls a significant portion of the world’s oil supply, everyone suddenly becomes very interested.
Addressing concerns about potential civilian impact or international law, Waltz argued that Iran’s leadership structure complicates the issue. With the regime tightly controlling critical infrastructure and using it to project power and suppress its population, he suggested those assets can become legitimate targets under the circumstances.
He also issued a stark warning about what’s at stake if Iran’s nuclear ambitions are left unchecked: a potential arms race across the Middle East. “It should petrify every American,” he said, pointing to the risk of a region flooded with nuclear weapons.
The administration’s approach, according to Waltz, is to act now rather than wait until Iran reaches full nuclear capability. And as he put it, no one should be surprised—President Trump has been consistent on one point: Iran cannot be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.
The takeaway? The strategy is clear—apply pressure, keep options open, and prevent a far bigger crisis down the line.
And if that means making tough decisions now, the administration seems ready to make them.
