US could ‘make a lot of money’ from Iran war, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham says

Mar 9, 2026 at 10:57 AM

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Lanka Leader

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said the United States could gain major economic benefits if the Iranian government is overthrown during the ongoing conflict.

Speaking to Fox News on Sunday, Graham argued that the U.S. could control nearly one-third of the world’s oil reserves and earn record profits if a new government replaces Iran’s current leadership. He described the war as a “good investment” and said it could reshape the Middle East.

His remarks came as global oil prices surged past $100 per barrel following the U.S.–Israeli military campaign against Iran, which began on February 28. President Donald Trump downplayed the spike in energy costs, calling it “a very small price to pay” for confronting Iran. ()

Graham said the military campaign aims to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Tehran has repeatedly denied seeking nuclear arms, insisting its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes.

The senator also claimed that if Iran’s current leadership collapses, the United States could help install a friendly government in Tehran and ensure security in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route for oil.

Graham further noted that Iran and Venezuela together hold about 31% of the world’s oil reserves, suggesting that cooperation with both countries could give Washington significant influence over global energy supplies.

Meanwhile, tensions in the region remain high. Iran has responded to the attacks by restricting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and launching retaliatory strikes on U.S. military bases in the Gulf.

Iranian officials have condemned the conflict as unprovoked aggression and say the country will not accept Trump’s demand for “unconditional surrender.”