White House says part of Iran leadership open to a deal with Washington

WASHINGTON, United States — WASHINGTON — The White House said talks between the United States and Iran are continuing, with parts of Tehran's leadership willing to reach an agreement with Washington. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that Iran's government is divided on the issue and that some within it view a deal favorably. Leavitt said recent U.S. airstrikes were carried out in response to Iranian violations of an existing understanding, without specifying which strikes or which understanding. She added that President Donald Trump remains open to a diplomatic resolution and believes in "peace through strength," and that Trump and Vice President Vance are aligned on Iran policy. Leavitt also said Trump would not leave unanswered any Iranian firing on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that the waterway is open to vessels not heading to or departing from Iran. She did not address specific incidents. According to reports citing Pakistani officials, mediation efforts between Tehran and Washington have faced setbacks and disagreements within Iran's leadership have widened. No further details on the status of the talks were immediately available.