Wright says US is open to a deal with Iran
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said that Washington remains open to a negotiated agreement with Iran, while also seeking to limit exports of Iranian oil and related energy resources. In an interview, the transcript of which was published by CBS News, he said that President Donald Trump prefers an agreement and considers a military option only if necessary.
According to Wright, the main task of the US military in the region is to stop exports of Iranian oil, petroleum products, natural gas and other related goods. He said that the United States is applying economic pressure to achieve a change in the policies of Iran's current authorities or regime change. Wright also claimed that oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz had reached their highest level since the start of the conflict.
Fuel prices
Commenting on gasoline prices in the United States, Wright said he expected them to decline in the coming weeks. He linked this to the end of the summer driving season after Labor Day and regulatory changes which, he said, will allow US refineries to produce more gasoline and diesel fuel using existing equipment.
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The program's host mentioned the record diesel fuel price of $5.89 per gallon that week. Wright said that high gasoline and diesel prices are largely related to global refining capacity. He claimed that refineries in Russia, the aggressor state, had sustained significant damage, and that the country had stopped exporting diesel and become a notable importer of gasoline. He added that the administration is considering various measures to lower prices, but is currently relying on increasing supply.
Venezuelan oil and elections
Wright also said that oil production in Venezuela is ahead of schedule and that exports have increased by 50% during eight months of US involvement. According to him, the agreement provides the United States with discounted oil and a share in certain production projects at no cost to US taxpayers.
Answering a question about cooperation with the government of Delcy Rodríguez, Wright said that elections would be held in Venezuela, but did not specify a timeframe. He said that secure voter rolls, the rule of law and the release of political prisoners are needed for free and fair voting.
