White House says diplomacy is the first option for Iran, but force remains on the table
WASHINGTON, DC: The White House on Tuesday, February 24, said that Donald Trump's primary approach toward Tehran is diplomacy, while emphasizing that the administration is prepared to authorize military force if necessary. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the President, as the "final decision maker," remains willing to deploy the US forces to protect national interests.
The remarks come as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio prepares to brief the "Gang of Eight" congressional leaders at the White House. Rubio is expected to provide updates on Iran as the US maintains a significant naval presence near the Iranian coast amid concerns over potential military action.
Trump sets strict deadline for deal
Trump has escalated pressure on Tehran, saying on February 19 that he was giving the Islamic Republic a 10-to-15-day window to reach a new agreement.
Negotiators from both countries are scheduled to meet on Thursday in Geneva in what officials describe as a final push for a diplomatic resolution to avert potential military conflict.
Despite the emphasis on diplomacy, the administration has intensified military preparations in the region.
Trump has reportedly told aides that if negotiations or limited strikes fail to persuade Iran to abandon its nuclear weapons program, he will consider "larger actions" later this year.
High-level meetings debate military targets
Discussions over potential military strikes were held on Wednesday in the White House Situation Room involving Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Rubio, and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen Dan Caine. Officials reviewed possible targets, including the headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, key nuclear sites, and elements of Iran’s ballistic missile program.
While Gen Caine previously assured the President of a high likelihood of success regarding the operation to seize Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro last month, reports indicate he could not provide the same level of reassurance regarding Iran. Additionally, plans for a commando raid involving special operations forces have reportedly been put on hold due to the high risks involved.
Administration explores alternative enrichment options
To avoid full-scale military intervention, some administration officials are mulling an option that would allow Iran a limited nuclear enrichment program strictly for medical research and treatments. However, it remains unclear if Tehran would accept such a restricted scope, given the significant investments already made in its current program.
Some officials expressed doubts that a total change in Iranian leadership could be achieved through airstrikes alone. If US demands are ignored, the President is reportedly considering a large-scale assault aimed at toppling the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
State of the Union focus tonight
President Trump is expected to address the escalating tensions and his threatened strikes during Tuesday night's State of the Union. Amid speculation over his decision-making, White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said in a statement that "only President Trump knows what he may or may not do."
The forthcoming congressional briefing is anticipated to provide clearer insight into how the President plans to proceed if the 15-day deadline passes without a diplomatic breakthrough.
