White House communications director Steven Cheung said Trump “has always been consistent in saying he prefers a diplomatic solution, but he continues to retain all options if Iran continues terrorist activities in the Strait of Hormuz or against allies.”
Cheung added that “it would be wise for Iran to work towards a negotiated deal; otherwise, they know what will happen.”
According to the report, Trump has been weighing how to proceed in the conflict with Iran and how to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as fuel prices rise following renewed hostilities.
The newspaper said diplomacy has stalled and that recent US strikes have not appeared to deter Iran militarily.
It also reported that some senior US officials doubt renewed major combat operations would push Tehran back to negotiations, arguing that further strikes could instead strengthen internal cohesion around the Iranian leadership.
