Fox News interrupted its regular coverage on Tuesday with a breaking news alert as White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt delivered a stark warning to Iran, stating that any future attacks on American interests would be met with military force. Speaking from the National Mall in Washington, D.C., Leavitt emphasized President Donald Trump's commitment to diplomacy but made clear the administration's readiness to act.
Leavitt's Warning to Iran
Leavitt told Fox News: "Violence will be met with violence." She added that while President Trump hopes diplomatic efforts succeed, Iran would be wise to agree to a deal with the United States. "The president obviously wants to see the peace process play out, and the Iranians would be best to sign a good deal with the United States of America, because the president has proven he's unafraid to use the might of our military," she said.
Military Operations Cited
Referring to recent US military operations, Leavitt pointed to Operation Midnight Hammer and Operation Epic Fury as evidence of the administration's willingness to act. She argued that regardless of the outcome, the United States is in a strong position. If diplomatic negotiations succeed, economic conditions would improve; any further aggression from Iran would leave the country increasingly isolated on the world stage.
Fox News Social Media Post
Fox News later shared a clip of the interview on social media, writing: "The Trump administration hopes diplomacy with Iran succeeds, but warns the U.S. is prepared to respond militarily if American interests are attacked."
Context of Heightened Tensions
The comments come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran following recent US military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and continued efforts by the Trump administration to negotiate a new agreement over Iran's nuclear programme. President Trump has repeatedly said he would prefer a diplomatic solution but has also maintained that military action remains an option if American personnel or interests come under attack.
