White House: US-Iran talks remain stalled as Washington escalates economic pressure

WASHINGTON (MNTV) — The White House said Thursday that the US and Iran are not engaged in negotiations, as Washington shifts its focus toward intensifying economic pressure on Tehran.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News that no talks are currently taking place between the two sides and suggested that Washington would maintain its position until Iranian officials agree to engage meaningfully with the US.

“ No negotiations are happening right now,” Leavitt said, adding that the situation would remain unchanged until President Donald Trump determines that Tehran is prepared to “come to the table in a meaningful way.”

Leavitt said the administration is instead pursuing what it calls “Operation Economic Outcast,” an initiative aimed at increasing pressure on Iran’s economy. She added that Trump continues to keep “all options on the table.”

“We’ve had Operation Epic Fury to destroy their military. Now we have Operation Economic Outcast to destroy their economy,” she said.

Leavitt also said the US was effectively controlling the Strait of Hormuz, claiming the strategic waterway remains open due to Trump and the US military.

Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding in June following mediation efforts by Pakistan and Qatar. However, implementation has stalled over disagreements concerning the Strait of Hormuz.

The US launched a fresh round of military strikes against Iran last month, prompting Tehran to retaliate with attacks on US military assets in Arab countries allied with Washington.