Trump administration says still considering military strikes on Iran
Al Jazeera
The White House says that US could carry out air strikes against Iran but would prefer diplomatic solution.
The administration of United States President Donald Trump has continued to threaten Iran with military attacks, saying that air strikes are one of “many options” being explored as widespread protests put the Iranian government under growing pressure.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Monday that diplomacy is “always the first option” but that military attacks are “on the table”.
“One thing President Trump is very good at is always keeping all of his options on the table. And air strikes would be one of the many, many options that are on the table for the commander in chief,” Leavitt told reporters.
Large-scale protests and riots have roiled Iran, with security forces responding with a lethal crackdown over the last several days that is estimated to have killed hundreds of people. Iranian authorities have said that scores of security personnel have also been killed in the riots.
Opposition activists say the death toll is higher and includes hundreds of protesters. Al Jazeera cannot independently verify these figures. Details have been difficult to verify amid an internet blackout.
