Ryan Zinke

Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Mont., said Saturday that the United States and its allies must continue pressuring Iran economically and militarily to prevent the country from developing nuclear weapons, while praising the Trump administration's approach toward Tehran.

Speaking on Newsmax's "Saturday Agenda," Zinke outlined what he described as three nonnegotiable priorities regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions.

"On Iran, it goes down to the three things that are imperative," Zinke said. "Number one, Iran cannot have nuclear weapons. Number two, they can't have nuclear material, which we know they have. We know it's not in dispute."

Zinke also argued Iran cannot be allowed to maintain what he called "an arsenal for destruction."

The congressman's remarks come amid heightened tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel, as concerns persist over Tehran's nuclear program and regional military activities.

Zinke said Iran's leadership is increasingly focused on maintaining control as the country faces mounting economic and military challenges.

"I would assume on the regime side is just the regime survival," he said.

The Montana Republican claimed Iran has suffered major losses across both military and political leadership structures.

"They've lost their two echelons of military leadership, their first echelon of political leadership," Zinke said. "They have no Navy. They have no air defense. Their currency is worthless and their inflation — and they don't have any water."

Iranian officials have acknowledged economic difficulties tied to sanctions and inflation but have rejected claims that the country's military capabilities have been crippled.

Zinke defended current U.S. actions aimed at weakening Iran economically, describing them as part of a broader blockade strategy.

"So the U.S., I think, is doing the right thing," he said. "We are doing a blockade and making sure we starve Iran."

He also called on U.S. allies to take a more active role in confronting Tehran.

"I wish our allies would step up to the plate," Zinke said.

The congressman argued the United States is less vulnerable to energy disruptions because of increased domestic energy production, which he credited in part to Republican energy policies.

"We're in a better position on energy," he said. "And I think the Trump administration is correct in their analysis and correct in finally taking action."

The Trump administration has taken a hardline approach toward Iran, reimposing sanctions and increasing pressure on Tehran over its nuclear activities, missile program, and support for armed groups throughout the Middle East.

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