The White House revealed a dual-track strategy involving increased strikes on Iran alongside negotiations to curb Tehran’s nuclear program. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that over 11,000 enemy targets have been hit, significantly reducing Iran’s military capabilities. This includes a 90% decrease in ballistic missile and drone attacks and the destruction of over 150 Iranian naval vessels.
Leavitt highlighted the success of the military campaign in damaging Iran’s defence industrial base, with around 70% of missile, drone, and naval production facilities impacted. While emphasizing ongoing talks with Iran, she noted the difference between public statements and private communications. President Donald Trump has temporarily halted planned strikes on Iranian power plants to facilitate negotiations, calling it a rare chance for Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions permanently.
Despite the military operation’s timeline of 4 to 6 weeks, Leavitt affirmed that it would persist until objectives like neutralizing Iran’s navy and preventing nuclear weapon acquisition are met. She underscored the importance of diplomacy, stating that negotiations would run parallel to military actions. The White House also linked the campaign to broader goals, such as ensuring Iran’s inability to control energy flow through the Strait of Hormuz.
