White House Issues Stern Warning to Iran Over Conflict
In a stark declaration from Washington DC, White House Press Secretary Karine Leavitt emphasized on Thursday that US President Donald Trump is not engaging in empty threats. She asserted that Trump is fully prepared to unleash devastating consequences if Iran fails to acknowledge its defeat in the ongoing conflict.
Trump's Preference for Peace Amid Military Pressure
Leavitt clarified during a media briefing that President Trump always prioritizes peaceful resolutions. She noted that following Trump's forceful warning last Saturday, Iran indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue. As a result, the United States has been involved in productive discussions over the past three days, leading Trump to temporarily delay planned military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure.
"President Trump's preference is always peace. However, following his powerful threat on Saturday evening, it was made clear that Iran wanted to talk. As the President announced on Monday, the US has been engaged over the last three days in productive conversations, leading the President to temporarily instruct the Department of War to postpone planned strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure," Leavitt stated.
Clear Message to Iran: Avoid Miscalculations
The Press Secretary issued a direct caution to Iran, warning against any further miscalculations. She highlighted that Iran's previous errors had resulted in significant losses, including senior leadership, naval forces, air capabilities, and air defense systems.
"Let me be clear, Iran should not miscalculate again. Their last miscalculation cost them their senior leadership, their navy, their air force, and their air defense system. President Trump does not bluff, and he is prepared to unleash hell if they refuse to accept the reality that they have been defeated," Leavitt added emphatically.
Military Success and Ongoing Operations
Leavitt provided an update on the military campaign, noting that Operation Epic Fury has achieved substantial success in its initial weeks. The United States military has targeted over 9,000 enemy sites, significantly degrading Iran's offensive and defensive capacities.
"The United States military continues to decimate the Iranian regime's offensive and defensive capabilities. Just over three weeks in, it is abundantly clear that Operation Epic Fury has been a resounding military triumph. More than 9,000 enemy targets have been struck to date," she reported.
Diplomatic Tensions and Regional Deployment
Meanwhile, diplomatic channels remain tense. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has commented that US messages through various mediators do not equate to formal negotiations. Sources indicate Tehran views a 15-point US proposal as excessively demanding and unreasonable, as reported by Al Jazeera.
In a related development, a Department of Defence official confirmed to Al Jazeera the deployment of approximately 2,500 US soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East. This deployment includes command and logistical support units from the division's 1st Combat Brigade, underscoring the heightened military posture in the region.
The situation continues to evolve, with the White House maintaining a firm stance while exploring diplomatic avenues. The international community watches closely as tensions between the US and Iran persist, with potential implications for global stability.
