Khaberni - The White House confirmed on Monday that President Donald Trump is keeping the option of launching airstrikes against Iran in response to the repressive campaign facing anti-authority protests, while maintaining an open diplomatic channel with Tehran.
U.S. presidential spokesperson Carol Leavitt said, "President Trump is very skilled at keeping all his options on the table. And airstrikes would be one of the many options very much on the table of the commander-in-chief of the armed forces."
Leavitt emphasized in statements to journalists that "diplomacy is always the first option for the president," adding "what you hear publicly from the Iranian regime differs drastically from the messages received by the administration... and I believe the president is interested in exploring these messages."
Tehran earlier on Monday declared it was ready for war and negotiation alike, following Trump's threat of military intervention if protesters were killed.
The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the existence of an "open" communication channel with the President's U.S. special envoy Steve Whitecoff.
Trump confirmed on Sunday that Washington is considering "some very strong options," adding "we will make a decision" regarding potential military intervention.
He explained that the Iranian leadership reached out to him seeking "negotiation" after he hinted at military action.
He added "Iranian leaders called yesterday (...) preparing for a meeting... They want to negotiate," but "we may have to act before holding a meeting."
