US President Trump is weighing air strikes on Iran to halt a deadly protest crackdown, but private diplomatic channels remain open, says the White House.
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump is considering air strikes on Iran to stop a violent crackdown on protesters, the White House confirmed.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that people were being “killed on the streets” of Tehran.
She emphasised that diplomacy remains the first option, noting Iran’s private tone with US envoy Steve Witkoff is far different from its public rhetoric.
“One thing President Trump is very good at is always keeping all of his options on the table,” Leavitt told reporters outside the West Wing.
She clarified that “air strikes would be one of the many, many options that are on the table for the commander in chief.”
Iran’s foreign ministry acknowledged an open communication channel between its diplomat Abbas Araghchi and Trump’s special envoy.
President Trump stated on Sunday the US military was reviewing “very strong options” as Iran appeared to cross his red line regarding protester deaths.
He indicated Iran’s leaders had requested a meeting but suggested the US might act before any summit.
Rights groups report a rising death toll amid an ongoing internet blackout in the country.
Leavitt appeared to confirm these fatalities, stating the president does not want to see people killed in Tehran’s streets.
