LEXINGTON, Ky. — U.S. Sen. Rand Paul visited the University of Kentucky on Friday to argue for a negotiated settlement to end the conflict with Iran, saying continued military escalation threatens the American economy and makes a peaceful resolution less likely.

Speaking at UK's Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce, Paul emphasized that military victory alone cannot resolve the situation since Iran's government controls its territory and population. "It has to be negotiated because even though they're defeated militarily, they still occupy the land and the country and they are the government," Paul said, according to LEX 18 News.

Paul outlined economic reasons for ending the conflict, noting that gas prices, oil prices, and fertilizer costs have all risen during the war. "As soon as the war ends, I think gas prices and oil prices will settle down," he said. "There's a lot of reasons to want the war to be over."

The Kentucky Republican's position differs from that of President Donald Trump, who has previously demanded Iran's complete surrender. Paul warned that pursuing such an outcome could lead to a costly U.S. invasion of Iran, making diplomatic efforts essential.

Paul's visit comes as he continues advocating for congressional oversight of military actions. This week, he joined Senate Democrats voting for the War Powers Resolution, which would have required congressional authorization for continued military operations. Though that measure failed, Paul expressed optimism that upcoming votes marking the 60-day deadline for unauthorized military operations could gain additional support from Republican colleagues.

"I think the sooner the war ends, the better," Paul said, emphasizing that presidents must seek congressional permission before committing to military action. "I am hopeful that the negotiations will succeed."