Karoline Leavitt hails Trump, says Operation Epic Fury against Iran gave US ‘maximum leverage’

WASHINGTON, DC: White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt jumped online Tuesday, April 7, to declare the US mission against Iran a done deal, touting Operation Epic Fury as a success that wrapped in just over a month.

In a post on X, Leavitt said the United States “achieved and exceeded our core military objectives in 38 days” under the leadership of President Donald Trump.

Karoline Leavitt praises Donald Trump, Operation Epic Fury

“This is a victory for the United States that President Trump and our incredible military made happen,” Leavitt wrote. “From the very beginning of Operation Epic Fury, President Trump estimated this would be a 4-6 week operation.”

“Thanks to the unbelievable capabilities of our warriors, we have achieved and exceeded our core military objectives in 38 days,” Leavitt added.

It came as Trump himself announced a two-week ceasefire with Iran on Truth Social.

Leavitt hinted more details were coming soon, teasing a Pentagon briefing with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine, writing there would be “more on that tomorrow morning.”

She also noted that there is now “an opening” for negotiations with Tehran. “The success of our military created maximum leverage, allowing President Trump and the team to engage in tough negotiations that have now created an opening for a diplomatic solution and long-term peace,” Leavitt wrote.

Before signing off, she gave Trump more credit for reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

“Never underestimate President Trump’s ability to successfully advance America’s interests and broker peace,” Leavitt concluded.

Iran fires back with demands and its own victory lap

According to a report by The Times of Israel, Iran released a 10-point plan aimed at ending the conflict.

The proposal reportedly calls for several concessions, including the lifting of all sanctions and US acceptance of Iran’s uranium enrichment program. It also demands “continued Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz, acceptance of enrichment, [and] lifting of all primary and secondary sanctions.”

The plan, allegedly delivered through mediators in Pakistan, also pushes for a full US military withdrawal from the Middle East and a halt to attacks on Iran and its allies.

Iran is also seeking expanded control over the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint that handles roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply.

In a statement reviewed by the outlet, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said the proposal, if accepted, would be a "significant diplomatic victory" for Iran.

“It is to be noted that the adoption of such a resolution shall render all these agreements binding under international law and shall constitute a significant diplomatic victory for the Iranian nation,” the council said. Notably, Tehran’s tone mirrored Washington’s as both sides hinted at victory.

The US has yet to formally respond to the 10-point list, including Iran’s insistence on continuing its enrichment program.

Pakistan steps in as ceasefire kicks off

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif continued to play the role of mediator.

He took to X late Tuesday to announce the ceasefire between the US and Iran as “EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY,” while inviting both sides to Islamabad to keep the conversation going.

“I warmly welcome the sagacious gesture and extend deepest gratitude to the leadership of both the countries and invite their delegations to Islamabad on Friday, 10th April 2026, to further negotiate for a conclusive agreement to settle all disputes,” Sharif wrote.

He was also optimistic about the road ahead, praising both nations for staying engaged despite the tensions.

“Both parties have displayed remarkable wisdom and understanding and have remained constructively engaged in furthering the cause of peace and stability,” Sharif wrote. “We earnestly hope, that the ‘Islamabad Talks’ succeed in achieving sustainable peace and wish to share more good news in coming days!”