Retired Gen. Frank McKenzie on the Trump administration's options with Iran

Retired Gen. Frank McKenzie, former commander of U.S. Central Command, outlined potential U.S. strategies for dealing with Iran amidst escalating strikes between the two nations. McKenzie told "Face the Nation" that the U.S. possesses the capability to exert significant control over key maritime and energy infrastructure.

Specifically, McKenzie pointed to the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's Kharg Island oil terminal as potential targets for U.S. action. Gaining control over these vital points could severely impact Iran's economy and its ability to project power.

"If you want to gain concessions from Iran, you have to directly pressure the regime, and you have to do so in a way that perhaps is existential to them," McKenzie stated. This suggests a strategy focused on imposing maximum pressure to compel Iran to negotiate or alter its behavior. The retired general's comments come as the U.S. and Iran continue a cycle of retaliatory strikes, raising concerns about broader regional stability.

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If you want to gain concessions from Iran, you have to directly pressure the regime, and you have to do so in a way that perhaps is existential to them.