Retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, a former national security adviser to then-President Donald Trump, is urging the administration to prepare the American public for a potential escalation of military operations against Iran, suggesting a focus on the country's economic lifeline. Kellogg stated that Americans should be told, "The fight's not over. It's going to take a day or two — buckle up." He believes the public will understand if the situation is clearly explained.
Kellogg expressed skepticism regarding the ongoing 60-day US-Iran talks, formalized in a memorandum of understanding signed last month by Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. He suggested that if these negotiations falter, the U.S. should consider seizing Kharg Island, a critical energy hub responsible for processing 80% to 90% of Iran's oil exports.
"This is when you go to someplace like Kharg Island," Kellogg told The Post. "You can take it, wholly control the oil." He credited Trump with pursuing diplomacy and taking steps toward denuclearization but argued that the current MOU talks are unlikely to alter the Iranian regime's long-standing behavior, which he characterized as using negotiations to gain time.
Kellogg's remarks come amid reports that Trump has considered abandoning peace talks for further strikes against Iran but has opted for diplomacy to encourage the dismantling of Iran's nuclear weapons program. A U.S. official indicated that Trump understands the Iranian negotiation tactics and is prepared to disengage from diplomacy if no progress is made. "We are hopeful that Iran will come to the table to negotiate seriously, but we are prepared to walk away if they do not," the official said. "President Trump reserves the right [to] return to combat or reinstitute the blockade at any time."
The U.S. and Israel initiated military actions against Iran on February 28 with the stated objectives of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, dismantling its ballistic missile and drone capabilities, neutralizing its navy, combating proxy groups, and encouraging internal dissent. Despite significant military actions and the elimination of key Iranian leaders, including Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, under new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei, continues to exert influence, particularly over the Strait of Hormuz.
Kellogg contended that diplomacy alone will not bring about meaningful change as long as the current regime remains in power. He likened the situation to being "half pregnant," asserting that once military action begins, there is no half-measure.
He proposed that Trump should directly communicate the stakes to the American people, emphasizing that crushing the regime would prevent a nuclear-armed Iran, protect global commerce, and complete the initial mission. Kellogg highlighted potential consequences of inaction, such as the continued Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz leading to increased oil prices. He also noted that nuclear powers are treated differently, implying that denuclearizing Iran would alter its future standing in conflicts and negotiations.
Instead of widespread airstrikes, Kellogg advocated for economic pressure, stating, "You're basically telling the Iranian people your economy can get starved out. If the economy goes sour, it's because of [the regime.]"
In June, Trump reportedly told Fox News that while seizing Kharg Island had been his preference, he doubted the American public would support such an action. A White House spokeswoman, Olivia Wales, stated that Trump's achievements militarily and diplomatically have strengthened U.S. security. "Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States decimated the Iranian regime’s military capabilities in 38 short days and strangled their economy – forcing Iran to the negotiating table," Wales said. "Now, the Strait of Hormuz is open, oil and gas prices are falling, and President Trump holds all the cards."