WASHINGTON: The White House said Thursday that the United States and Iran are not currently engaged in negotiations, while stressing that President Donald Trump continues to keep all options on the table amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said there are currently no talks between the two sides. She added that the situation could change if Iran agrees to return to the negotiating table in a meaningful way.

The statement comes as Washington continues to increase economic pressure on Iran. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned countries against maintaining financial ties with Tehran as the Trump administration seeks to isolate the Iranian economy.

US Keeps All Options on the Table

Leavitt said Trump’s main objective remains preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. She also indicated that the US campaign has shifted toward stronger economic measures following earlier military action.

The White House position adds to uncertainty over efforts to end the conflict. Qatar’s prime minister travelled to Tehran on Thursday in an attempt to revive diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the major obstacles in efforts to reach a broader settlement. The strategic waterway is vital to global energy supplies, and continued disruption has raised concerns about oil prices and regional trade.

For now, Washington says there is no active negotiation process with Tehran. At the same time, diplomatic efforts by regional countries continue as concerns grow over a prolonged conflict and its impact on the Middle East and global energy markets.