Kellogg warns time is running out to improve Iran

On January 13, 2025, Iran is facing increasing economic challenges as oil prices reach a five-month high. This situation follows significant actions taken by the United States, including the blacklisting of the Elva, a tanker that was alleged to have breached sanctions while transporting 2 million barrels of Iranian crude. The vessel remains stranded near its origin, indicating severe repercussions for Iran's oil export capacity. Amid these tensions, Keith Kellogg, the incoming U.S. special envoy on the Ukraine conflict, emphasized the need for reviving a tough 'maximum pressure' campaign against Iran. At a Paris event hosted by the National Council of Resistance of Iran, Kellogg called for a multi-faceted approach, urging military, economic, and diplomatic efforts to foster democratic reforms within the Islamic Republic, which he views as at a pivotal moment of vulnerability. His comments come amid ongoing frustrations over Iran's nuclear ambitions, which have escalated since the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal, leading to a significant uptick in uranium enrichment activities. Kellogg pointed out that the time to act on this opportunity is diminishing and must be seized immediately to drive change in Iran, framing his perspective against the backdrop of Iran's ongoing tensions with both the U.S. and regional adversaries. The Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned France for having hosted the NCRI event, which they classified as a terrorist organization, reflecting ongoing geopolitical strife and Iran's defensive posture regarding external criticism and sanctions. The U.S. sanctions aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear program and its support for regional conflicts continue to be a contentious point in international relations. Furthermore, Iranian officials have dismissed calls for negotiations and reforms under pressure as unacceptable, highlighting the entrenched divide between Iranian leadership and U.S. policy.