US Energy Secretary Wright stated that the US is 'playing the long game' on Iran, indicating a measured and strategic long-term approach to the situation.

Wright's remarks on Iran

Wright's comments reflect the US administration's position of sustained strategic engagement rather than immediate action on Iran. The phrase 'playing the long game' suggests a deliberate, patient approach to the matter, though no further details or specific policy measures were provided alongside the statement.

President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to significantly scale back joint military exercises with South Korea, citing their cost, his relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and Seoul’s refusal to assist US efforts involving Iran.

Directive details

On Sunday, Trump stated on Truth Social that he was "not happy" the US had previously agreed to participate in the exercises. He argued they were costly, with much of the expense borne by the US, and sent a signal that was "totally inappropriate and hostile" to North Korea.

Trump instructed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to "substantially reduce" the drills. While noting it was too late to cancel the current exercises, he emphasized his dissatisfaction with agreements the US "long ago agreed to join."

The president also highlighted South Korea’s refusal to join US efforts regarding Iran. "I recently asked the President of South Korea if they would like to join us in the Denuclearization of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and they said, ‘No thanks!’" Trump wrote.

Context and criticism

The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises began Monday as scheduled and are set to run through Aug. 27, with about 18,000 South Korean troops participating. The drills include training for drone, cyber, and GPS-related threats.

Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) warned that reducing US-South Korea military drills could weaken the allies’ readiness and coordination against North Korea. He called the move "shortsighted and a mistake," noting that North and South Korea are still technically at war.

Earlier this year, Kim oversaw a test of an advanced solid-fuel rocket engine as North Korea strengthened its long-range, nuclear-capable weapons program. North Korea has previously criticized US-South Korea military drills as a "provocative and aggressive" war rehearsal.