INTERNATIONAL — February 25, 2026
White House: Trump's First Option on Iran is Diplomacy
White House spokesperson Carolyn Leavitt said President Donald Trump's first option for Iran is diplomacy, but he is ready to use U.S. military force if needed. She noted a naval deployment near Iran and Trump's prior warnings on the nuclear program.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Hasht-e Subh — 2 min read
WASHINGTON (Afghan Verified) -- White House spokesperson Carolyn Leavitt stated that President Donald Trump's primary option for dealing with Tehran is always diplomacy, though he is prepared to employ lethal force from the U.S. military if necessary.
Leavitt made the remarks Tuesday night, Feb. 24, 2026, to reporters at the White House. She emphasized that Trump remains the final decision-maker on all security and military matters.
The United States has previously deployed an extensive naval force near Iran's coasts in preparation for potential military action if required.
Trump has previously indicated that he gave Tehran approximately 10 to 15 days to reach an agreement. He may reiterate his threat to strike Iran's nuclear program during his State of the Union address.
Leavitt's comments come amid ongoing U.S. considerations of approaches toward Iran, highlighting diplomacy as the initial preference while underscoring readiness for escalation.
Read the original reporting at Hasht-e Subh →
Reliability assessment
Direct, on-record attribution to named spokesperson Carolyn Leavitt speaking at the White House on Feb. 24, 2026, with specific details including dates, prior statements, and military preparations.
The source language reads straight.
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Hasht-e Subh
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International — Donald Trump, Iran, White House, Carolyn Leavitt, US military
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