White House: Iran talks “productive” despite no deal on US plan

With the war involving Iran entering its fourth week, the White House said the US timeline for developments remains unchanged at four to six weeks, according to Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

Speaking to reporters on March 25, Leavitt reiterated that US President Donald Trump continues to favour a diplomatic outcome, while warning that further escalation remains possible.

US President Donald Trump’s preference is “always peace,” Leavitt said during her daily briefing.

“But if Iran fails to accept the reality of the current moment, if they fail to understand that they have been defeated militarily and will continue to be, President Trump will ensure they are hit harder than they have ever been hit before.”

At the same time, Leavitt said diplomatic efforts are ongoing, describing current contacts as “productive” even though Iran has not immediately agreed to a 15-point proposal put forward by Washington aimed at ending the war.

Addressing questions about potential military escalation, Leavitt declined to guarantee that the president would seek congressional authorization before deploying US troops in Iran.

“At this moment, it’s unnecessary,” she said, adding that Trump “likes to maintain options at his disposal.”

Leavitt also rejected suggestions that Vice President JD Vance has taken on a more prominent role in negotiations, despite appearances that he is increasingly involved in the Iran talks.

Finally, she said it remains unclear whether the administration is satisfied with Iran’s current leadership, despite its public emphasis on pursuing peace.

“It’s too soon to say,” Leavitt noted.

By Tamilla Hasanova