White House: "Diplomatic Solution in Iran Is Top Priority... Military Options Also Under Consideration"

"Iran’s Public Statements Differ from Messages Sent to the U.S."

On January 12 (local time), the White House stated that while diplomatic solutions remain the top priority regarding the ongoing anti-government protests in Iran, military action is also being considered as an option.

White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt responded to reporters' questions at the White House that day, saying, "President Donald Trump is always adept at keeping all options on the table," and added, "Airstrikes are just one of many options available to the Commander-in-Chief, and diplomacy is always the President's first choice."

Caroline Levitt, White House Press Secretary. Photo by Reuters Yonhap News

Levitt further stated, "President Trump does not hesitate to use military options if he deems them necessary, and Iran is more aware of this than anyone."

She also reported that President Trump had a phone conversation with Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and operator of the Starlink satellite internet network, regarding internet access in Iran.

Levitt said, "President Trump told you (the press) last night that 'what the Iranian regime says publicly and the messages they send privately to the Trump administration are quite different,' and the President is willing to review those messages."

These remarks can be interpreted to mean that, despite the Iranian government’s strong public criticism of the United States, there have been ongoing behind-the-scenes contacts with the Trump administration to facilitate communication.

Previously, President Trump stated on his private jet returning to the White House from Florida that "Iranian leaders called yesterday" and "they want to negotiate."

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that President Trump is leaning toward approving military action against Iran. According to government officials, President Trump has not yet made a final decision on the matter. He is scheduled to meet with senior aides on the 13th to decide on a course of action.

Options under consideration reportedly include military strikes against key Iranian regime facilities, cyberattacks, approval of new sanctions, and expanded support for anti-government online accounts.

Officials say that some senior aides, including Vice President J.D. Vance, are urging President Trump to attempt diplomacy with Iran first.

Some officials have expressed concern that a U.S. military strike could backfire by lending credibility to the Iranian regime’s claims that the United States and Israel are behind the anti-government protests.

Meanwhile, Press Secretary Levitt stated that there is "no deadline" for the U.S. acquisition of Greenland, a territory of Denmark, but emphasized that it is "certainly an important task."