The White House on Monday stated that President Donald Trump is considering a wide range of responses to developments in Iran following reports of protesters being killed, even as diplomatic contacts continue behind the scenes. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that while military action remains a possible option, diplomacy is being prioritised.
“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 outside the West Wing. She noted that public statements from Tehran differ from private messages received by the US administration, highlighting ongoing behind-the-scenes engagement.
Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed that communication remains open between its top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, and Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations. Trump warned that the US may need to act before any potential meeting, citing a possible red line breach over the killing of protesters. Leavitt confirmed that the president is concerned over the escalating deaths in Tehran, calling the situation “unfortunate.”
