The White House says United States President Donald Trump is weighing possible air strikes against Iran in response to a violent crackdown on protesters, while keeping diplomatic channels open.
Speaking on Monday, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump was disturbed by reports of civilians being killed and had not ruled out military action.
“One thing President Trump is very good at is always keeping all of his options on the table. And air strikes would be one of the many, many options that are on the table for the commander in chief,” Leavitt told reporters, adding that “diplomacy is always the first option for the president.”
She disclosed that Iran has adopted a different approach behind closed doors, particularly in communications with Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff.
“What you’re hearing publicly from the Iranian regime is quite different from the messages the administration is receiving privately, and I think the president has an interest in exploring those messages,” Leavitt said.
Earlier on Monday, Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed that a line of communication exists between its foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, and Witkoff, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between both countries.
Trump had said on Sunday that the US military was reviewing “very strong options” against Tehran, suggesting Iran may have crossed his red line over the killing of protesters.
He noted that Iranian leaders had sought a meeting but warned that “we may have to act before a meeting.”
Human rights organisations have reported rising fatalities as protests continue, though information from Iran remains limited due to an extended internet shutdown.
Leavitt appeared to acknowledge the deaths, saying the president was deeply concerned.
“He certainly doesn’t want to see people being killed in the streets of Tehran, and unfortunately that’s something we’re seeing right now,” she said.
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