White House: Iran in a “Very Weak” Position, All Options Remain on the Table
Welat TV – Erbil
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that the United States is currently focused on intensifying economic pressure on Iran, noting that no talks are underway with Tehran due to what she described as a lack of seriousness on the Iranian side.
In remarks reported by Fox News on Thursday, Aug. 26, 2026, Leavitt said that Iran is now in a “very weak” position, explaining that the U.S. Treasury Secretary continues to use the available economic tools to intensify pressure on Tehran.
She added that Operation “Epic Fury” had achieved, according to the U.S. administration’s assessment, “tremendous success” in undermining and weakening the military capabilities of the Iranian regime.
*Naval Blockade Continues
Regarding maritime traffic and sea crossings, Leavitt confirmed that the strait remains open to maritime navigation, while noting that the United States exercises effective control and that the “naval blockade remains in effect against Tehran.”
*“All Options Are on the Table”
The White House press secretary stressed that U.S. President Donald Trump’s main objective remains ensuring that Iran is unable to acquire a nuclear weapon. She added that Washington has not seen “any seriousness” from the Iranian side in entering genuine negotiations, stressing that “all options are on the table” in dealing with Tehran.
*Economic Escalation
On Aug. 24, the United States announced the launch of Operation “Economic Outcast” against Iran, explaining that the operation aims to further isolate the Iranian economy from the global financial and trade system, while threatening unilateral measures against countries that fail to comply with deadlines set by Washington.
*Concerns Over Diplomatic Stalemate
Leavitt’s remarks come amid the continuing U.S.-Iranian confrontation since the end of last February, which has entered a new phase of escalation, amid regional and international concerns over the possible failure of the negotiating track and the repercussions this could have on regional stability and the global financial system.