White House: Talks with Iran are progressing despite public statements

WASHINGTON – The White House declared on Monday that discussions with Iran are ongoing and “going well,” despite public statements from Tehran suggesting otherwise.

“We see that remaining elements of the regime are increasingly eager to end the destruction and return to the negotiating table as long as they still can,” White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters.

“What is said publicly is, of course, very different from what is communicated to us in private.

Everything they tell us privately will be verified, and we will ensure they are held accountable for their commitments,” she added.

Leavitt emphasized that President Donald Trump has outlined the military consequences Iran would face if they “do not adhere to the commitments we hear in private, behind the scenes.”

She also stated that the war in Iran will continue until American military objectives are achieved, maintaining that the four to six-week timeline announced by the Pentagon on March 15 remains in effect.

An American proposal transmitted through Pakistan calls for Iran to limit its nuclear and ballistic programs, as well as restrict its control over strategic energy routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran rejected this plan, claiming it serves the interests of the United States and Israel, while maintaining indirect communication channels.

These statements come as the United States and Israel continue their joint strikes against Iran, initiated on February 28. American officials suggest that operations could conclude in the coming weeks if objectives are met, while diplomatic channels remain open through intermediaries.

* Translated from English by Adama Bamba