By Sam Barron | Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 9:18 p.m. EDT
Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg said on Tuesday that recent developments in U.S.-Iran relations demonstrate growing recognition of President Donald Trump’s commitment to action.
“The man is a ‘living action verb,’ with courage as his defining trait,” Kellogg stated. “He has done something as president that no predecessor has accomplished.”
Kellogg emphasized that Trump not only spoke about the situation but took decisive steps, and this approach is beginning to resonate. “Some take time to grasp it, but now he has their attention,” he added.
While expressing skepticism about Iran’s ability to uphold its end of a ceasefire agreement, Kellogg said the United States had sufficient leverage to achieve results with Tehran. “They now realize they are dealing with an individual who is very serious about action and results,” he stated. “He will take Kharg Island, disrupt their oil supply, or cut off their lifeline if necessary.”
Kellogg also noted that Iran’s leadership would have to adapt to Trump’s resolve: “They will face someone with great determination. But when you look at officials like Abbas Araghchi and Ahmad Vahidi—hardliners in the Iranian regime—they are also becoming realistic.”
Over time, he added, Iran might experience a leadership change.
