White House says Trump is mulling air strikes on Iran over protest crackdown but calls diplomacy the "first option." Get the latest on the threats, private talks, and rising death toll.
White House Says Trump Mulling Air Strikes on Iran as Death Toll Rises (Image: File)
WASHINGTON, D.C., January 13 — White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed Monday that President Donald Trump is actively considering the option of air strikes against Iran as the administration responds to a violent crackdown on protests that has left at least 599 dead. Leavitt stressed that diplomacy remains the first priority, while acknowledging that military force is firmly "on the table."
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump is "always keeping all of his options on the table" in response to Iran's violent suppression of protests. When asked specifically, she confirmed, "air strikes would be one of the many, many options that are on the table for the commander in chief."She emphasized the president's willingness to use military force if deemed necessary, adding, "nobody knows that better than Iran."
Despite the military posturing, Leavitt clarified that "diplomacy is always the first option for the president." She revealed a stark contrast in Iran's messaging, noting the regime has taken a "far different tone" in private discussions with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff compared to its public threats. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei separately confirmed a communications channel remains open but insisted talks must be based on "mutual interests," not "dictation."
WH Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on Iran: "Air strikes would be one of the many, many options that are on the table for the Commander in Chief. Diplomacy is always the first option for the president."
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President Trump escalated his rhetoric on Sunday, warning that a U.S. military strike is "a very strong option" and that Iran may have "crossed a red line" by allowing protesters to be killed. He disclosed that Iranian officials have made contact in an attempt to have discussions, but he issued a warning, saying, "We may have to act before a meeting," implying that any diplomatic contact may be preceded by military action.
Iranian officials publicly projected defiance. Senior diplomat Abbas Araghchi told Al Jazeera, "If Washington wants to test the military option... we are ready for it," while also stating Iran is "open to diplomacy." Simultaneously, the regime staged a massive pro-government rally in Tehran, with tens of thousands chanting "Death to America!"in a display of force aimed at countering the anti-government protests.
Protests have continued to spread despite a days-long, nationwide internet shutdown designed to stifle dissent and information flow. Reports quoted by the White House indicate that the dead toll has increased to at least 599.Leavitt expressed deep concern, stating, "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."
A: The White House has confirmed air strikes are a considered option, but stated diplomacy remains the first priority.No decision has been announced.
A: Yes. Both sides confirm a diplomatic channel, facilitated by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian diplomat Abbas Araghchi, remains open.The White House says Iran's private tone is more conciliatory than its public threats.
A: While not explicitly defined, President Trump suggested Iran "crossed a red line" with the lethal crackdown on protesters. The administration has warned it will act if the situation worsens.
