'Trump Will Dictate Timeline': White House Press Secretary On Iran War

Last Updated:April 23, 2026, 05:29 IST

White House says Trump will decide Iran war timeline, no fixed end date, US keeps naval blockade despite ceasefire, uses economic pressure as talks via Qatar and Oman continue.

The White House has said that US President Donald Trump will determine the timeline of the ongoing conflict with Iran, even as a fragile ceasefire remains in place.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said there is no fixed end date for the war, and decisions will be made based on US interests.

“President Trump will ultimately dictate the timeline, and he will do so when he feels it is in the best interest of the United States and the American people," Leavitt said.

The comments come as the US maintains a naval blockade of Iranian ports, which began shortly after the start of hostilities and continues despite the ceasefire.

Leavitt stressed that the administration is taking a dual approach—pausing direct military strikes while continuing economic pressure through the blockade. She said Iran is facing mounting financial strain as a result.

“I am not going to set a timetable for the President. I know that has been some annoyance because reporting that there was maybe a two-day deadline… that is not accurate," she added.

The White House also pointed to divisions within Iran’s leadership, suggesting that internal disagreements could influence the course of negotiations.

Meanwhile, officials indicated that diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with indirect talks involving regional mediators such as Qatar and Oman continuing alongside the economic pressure campaign.

The remarks underscore the uncertainty surrounding both the ceasefire and broader negotiations, as Washington keeps military options on the table while pushing for concessions from Tehran.

News world 'Trump Will Dictate Timeline': White House Press Secretary On Iran War

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