White House: Iran continues talks, faces consequences for Strait of Hormuz violations

The White House maintains that Iran is actively pursuing negotiations with the United States and signaling a desire for an agreement, even in the wake of recent attacks. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated that Iran continues to engage with the U.S. and express its wish for a deal, particularly as it faces "devastating blows" from the American military.

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Iran continues to negotiate with the U.S. and continues to express its desire to reach an agreement with us. Because, they are taking devastating blows from the U.S. military.

Leavitt attributed the recent attacks to Iran's violation of a memorandum of understanding. This agreement specifically prohibited Iran from firing on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. She described Iran's decision to breach this understanding as "tragic" and emphasized that President Donald Trump would not permit Iran to evade responsibility for its actions.

Responding to questions about President Trump's stance on negotiations, Leavitt confirmed his openness to diplomacy. She noted that following the conclusion of "Operation Epic Fury," the administration entered a diplomatic phase. However, she reiterated that Iran has since violated the agreement and continues to express interest in a deal, with ongoing discussions.

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The reason for the attacks in the last few days is because Iran violated the memorandum of understanding that it signed with us. The memorandum of understanding that they signed specifically stated that they were not to fire on commercial ships that were transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

Leavitt also clarified the U.S. stance on potential Iranian actions in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that the U.S. would not allow Iran to act without consequence. She stated that President Trump has demonstrated to Iran and the world the U.S.'s capability to strike Iran "anytime, anywhere, and at any point." The operation, she added, has "essentially completely eliminated" Iran's ability to defend itself.

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President Donald Trump will not sit on the sidelines and allow Iran to not face the consequences of its actions while these active acts of terror are occurring in the Strait.

Regarding maritime traffic, Leavitt announced that a naval blockade is in effect, specifically targeting ships entering or departing Iranian ports, as per the president's directive. This blockade was reimposed due to Iran's non-compliance with its agreement with the U.S. She detailed that within the first 24 hours of the blockade, which involves two aircraft carriers, over 20 warships, and dozens of aircraft, the routes of two compliant ships were altered, and one non-compliant vessel was neutralized.

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The President is always open and willing to diplomacy.