WASHINGTON, Feb 19 – The White House warned Wednesday that Iran would be “wise” to reach an agreement with the United States as President Donald Trump again hinted at possible military action.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump remains open to diplomacy but stands ready to act. “Iran would be very wise to make a deal,” she told reporters.
The two sides recently resumed indirect talks mediated by Oman after tensions spiked over Iran’s crackdown on protesters. However, Trump suggested in a Truth Social post that US forces could strike if negotiations fail. CNN and CBS reported the military could be prepared to act as early as this weekend, though Trump has not made a final decision.
Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump has reviewed options designed to maximise damage, including strikes targeting senior Iranian figures.
In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran is drafting a framework for future talks following a second round of negotiations in Geneva. However, US Vice President JD Vance said Iran has yet to accept Washington’s red lines.
President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran does not seek war but would resist humiliation. Additionally, Araghchi spoke with International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi about advancing discussions.
At the same time, Washington has deployed a second aircraft carrier to the region, while Iran’s Revolutionary Guard launched drills in the Strait of Hormuz. Both sides have signalled readiness, even as diplomacy continues.
