[Video below.] Former Vice President Mike Pence said the U.S. and Israel war with Iran “had to happen,” defending the ongoing conflict as a necessary response to decades of hostility from Tehran.

“Iran has been at war with America and our most cherished ally, Israel, for 47 years,” Pence said during a televised interview on Sunday, arguing that the Iranian regime has consistently targeted American forces and interests through proxy groups.

The fighting has now entered its third month, contributing to rising energy costs and escalating tensions across the Middle East.

Public sentiment in the United States remains cautious. A Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll found that 61% of Americans believe the U.S. military action against Iran was a mistake, reflecting widespread doubt about the operation.

Despite that, Pence has continued to strongly support Donald Trump and his handling of the situation, portraying the strategy as a necessary stand against a hostile regime.

In a post on X, Pence praised Trump’s recent move to secure maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a “strong move” and expressing backing for U.S. forces involved in the mission.

“God bless all our troops engaged in Project Freedom,” Pence wrote Sunday night.

The effort is aimed at restoring access to one of the world’s most vital shipping routes after Iran restricted movement in the area, sending global oil prices higher.

Those disruptions have translated into higher costs at home, with average gas prices in the United States climbing to approximately $4.46 per gallon, a sharp increase from last year.

Trump has described the operation as both a strategic and humanitarian mission, pledging to ensure safe passage for vessels moving through the strait and to stabilize global commerce.

The move is part of a broader push by the administration to increase pressure on Iran while maintaining leverage in ongoing diplomatic considerations.

Pence, who has long advocated for a firm U.S. approach toward Iran, reiterated his support for military action during recent public appearances.

Speaking earlier this month at an event in Ohio, Pence said he backs Trump’s decision to use force against Iran and emphasized the importance of projecting American strength on the global stage.

“We worked together closely,” Pence said of his time with Trump, The Columbus Dispatch reported, pointing to their shared approach on national security and foreign policy.

Supporters of the administration argue that decisive action is necessary to counter Iran’s destabilizing behavior and prevent it from developing nuclear weapons.

Critics, however, warn that the conflict could escalate further and question whether the current strategy provides a sustainable long-term solution.

{Matzav.com}