The White House said on Wednesday it remains engaged in talks with Iran, despite reports that Tehran has rejected a US proposal to end the ongoing conflict.
“Talks are continuing. They are being productive,” press secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a briefing, dismissing claims that discussions had stalled.
WH warns Iran of dire consequences
The White House struck a sharp note, warning of escalating military action if diplomacy fails.
“If Iran cannot accept the reality of the present moment … President Trump will ensure that they are hit harder than ever before,” Leavitt said.
“President Trump is not bluffing and is ready to unleash hell. Iran should not recalculate.”
Iran reportedly rejects the US proposal
Iranian state media, citing an unidentified official, said Tehran had reacted “negatively” to the US overture as the war approaches the four-week mark.
Leavitt acknowledged the partial accuracy of media reports about the proposed US 15-point plan, but warned that some details were not “completely factual”.
It is not clear about the partner
According to US and Israeli media reports, Washington’s proposal includes demands that Iran abandon its nuclear ambitions and dismantle its ballistic missile program.
But Leavitt declined to confirm details or identify American partners in Tehran.
Reports suggest that Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf may act as a key intermediary, although this remains unconfirmed.
Pakistan is emerging as a potential mediator
Leavitt also declined to confirm reports that senior US officials, including JD Vance, may be holding talks with Iranian officials in Pakistan, who has reportedly emerged as an intermediary.
The US is strengthening its military presence in the Persian Gulf
Donald Trump is deploying thousands of air troops and more Marines to the Persian Gulf region, amid speculation of a possible ground operation.
Potential targets include securing Iran’s oil assets or controlling the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, Ghalibaf on X warned of a possible invasion of an Iranian island with the support of an unnamed regional country.
US sets timeline for Iran operations at 4-6 weeks
The White House said the military operations – dubbed “Operation Epic Fury” – were expected to last four to six weeks.
“We’ve always estimated around four to six weeks … so you can do the math,” Leavitt said.
