The White House threatens Iran with deadly force: Trump's options between war and diplomacy
In a notable escalation of the US rhetoric toward the Islamic Republic, the White House intensified its stern warnings to Tehran, threatening the use of direct military force should the violent crackdown on protesters in Iranian streets continue. These developments come at a critical juncture in relations between Washington and Tehran, oscillating between threats of confrontation and attempts to open back channels of diplomacy.
The military option is on the table: “deadly force”
The US administration, through White House spokeswoman Carolyn Leavitt, confirmed that President Donald Trump is not ruling out any option, including military intervention, to protect civilians in Iran. In an interview with Fox News, Leavitt explained that diplomacy remains the president's "first choice," but that this does not mean he will hesitate to use the "iron fist" of the US military if necessary.
Levitt clearly indicated that "airstrikes" are one of the options seriously being considered by the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, stressing that Washington is closely monitoring the situation and will not stand idly by in the face of scenes of killing in the streets of Tehran.
The "carrot and stick" policy: military pressure and a diplomatic channel
Despite the direct military threats, reports have revealed a dual strategy being pursued by the White House. While Trump brandishes the threat of airstrikes in response to the crackdown on protests, his administration maintains an open line of communication with the Iranian leadership. The Iranian Foreign Ministry has confirmed contact with US Special Envoy Steve Wittkopf, indicating a desire on both sides to avoid sliding into all-out war despite the fiery rhetoric.
President Trump stated that the Iranian leadership contacted him with the aim of negotiating after threatening military action, saying: "They want to negotiate, but we may have to act before any meeting takes place," indicating that time is running out and that American patience is linked to stopping the violence against protesters.
Tehran's response: Ready for war and for negotiation
In response, Tehran was quick to acknowledge these threats, declaring its readiness for all scenarios. Iranian authorities asserted they were "prepared for both war and negotiation," attempting to project internal unity and resistance to external pressure, while simultaneously leaving the door slightly ajar for diplomatic solutions that could avert potential military strikes.
Context of the tension and its regional impact
This escalation comes within a broader context of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Historically, US-Iranian relations have been governed by a delicate balance of mutual deterrence. Observers believe that Washington's threat of "very strong options" is reminiscent of its "maximum pressure" policy and aims to send a firm message not only to Tehran but also to its allies in the region: the United States is prepared to change the rules of engagement if red lines related to human rights and regional stability are crossed.
