ESCALATING CONFLICT
Leavitt confirmed that Trump was briefed on Israel’s strikes on Iranian nuclear websites on Thursday, which adopted a barrage of missiles and drones launched by Iran, together with one which hit an Israeli hospital.
She warned that Iran would face “grave penalties” if it continued pursuing nuclear weapons and failed to have interaction in talks.
Trump’s administration has despatched blended indicators in latest days. Whereas Trump has repeatedly hinted at diplomacy, he has additionally spoken of army motion. On Wednesday, he advised reporters: “No one is aware of what I will do.”
Earlier this week, he advised in a social media submit that Iran’s Supreme Chief Ayatollah Ali Khamenei may very well be focused, earlier than demanding Iran’s “unconditional give up.”
BACKCHANNEL CONTACTS
Three diplomats advised Reuters that Trump’s particular envoy, Steve Witkoff, has held a number of cellphone calls with Iranian International Minister Abbas Araqchi since Israel started its strikes final week.
The character of these discussions stays unclear, however they underscore Washington’s dual-track method, sustaining open diplomatic strains whereas getting ready for potential army involvement.
The escalating conflict, now in its second week, has proven no indicators of abating. Iran, dealing with its most severe safety menace because the 1979 revolution, has been weighing broader retaliation choices.
