White House says Trump may order airstrikes on Iran amid deaths of protesters

The White House on Monday gave an indication that President Donald Trump was considering all options on Iran following reports of protesters being killed, even as behind-the-scenes diplomatic contacts continue.

Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, noted that the president was considering a range of responses to developments in Iran, including possible military action, while also prioritising diplomacy, AFP reports.

“One thing President Trump is very good at is always keeping all of his options on the table. And air strikes would be one of the many, many options that are on the table for the commander in chief,” Leavitt told reporters outside the West Wing.

She emphasised that “diplomacy is always the first option for the president,” noting a contrast between Iran’s public posture and private communications.

“What you’re hearing publicly from the Iranian regime is quite different from the messages the administration is receiving privately, and I think the president has an interest in exploring those messages,” Leavitt said.

According to the White House, Iran has taken a “far different tone” in private discussions with Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff.

Iran’s foreign ministry earlier said a channel of communication remained open between its top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, and Witkoff, despite the absence of diplomatic relations between Tehran and Washington.

Trump said on Sunday that the US military was considering “very strong options” against Iran, adding that it “looks like” Tehran had crossed his previously stated red line of protesters being killed.

He said Iranian leaders had reached out to request a meeting but cautioned that “we may have to act before a meeting.”

Rights groups have reported a rising death toll, with information continuing to emerge from Iran despite a days-long internet shutdown.

Leavitt appeared to confirm the reports, saying: “He certainly doesn’t want to see people being killed in the streets of Tehran, and unfortunately that’s something we’re seeing right now.”