White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stood by President Donald Trump’s recent strong remarks towards Iran, as tensions over the Iran ceasefire agreement escalated.
Addressing reporters during a press briefing, Leavitt responded to inquiries regarding Trump’s forceful warning to Iran, emphasizing that the president’s firm stance compelled Iran to comply and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
She defended Trump’s actions, stating that the threat was not idle, as the Pentagon had a list of targets ready for immediate action if Iran did not yield, which ultimately pressured Iran to reopen the strait.
Trump had set a deadline for an agreement with Iran, threatening strikes on civilian infrastructure unless Iran agreed to a full, immediate, and secure reopening of the strait in exchange for a temporary halt on U.S. military actions against Iran, as reported by the Mirror US.
Adding tension, Trump posted a provocative statement on Easter Sunday, implying severe consequences if Iran did not comply with his demands.
Following negotiations, Trump announced that Iran had presented a feasible basis for further discussions, leading to a temporary ceasefire agreement to finalize terms over the next two weeks.
The agreement, which includes a two-week pause in hostilities and a commitment from Iran to reopen shipping routes through the strait, aimed to ease pressure on global oil and gas markets. However, the deal faces uncertainty as Israel continues military actions in Lebanon, a critical aspect of the agreement.
Trump’s aggressive negotiation tactics drew widespread criticism from various quarters, including the United Nations and the Pope. UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over the statements, while Pope Leo XIV labeled the threats as unacceptable.
Former MAGA supporter Marjorie Taylor Greene hinted at invoking the 25th Amendment to remove Trump from office, denouncing the aggressive rhetoric as unjustifiable.
Following the ceasefire declaration, several Middle Eastern countries, including Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, issued alerts about potential missile threats from Iran. Despite a brief lull, missile attacks resumed shortly after.
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