US strikes severely crippled Iran's nuclear and naval capabilities: White House spokesperson

Washington (Web Desk): White House White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has stated that the ongoing conflict between the United States (US) and Iran has entered a decisive phase, stating that American strikes have severely crippled Iran’s nuclear and naval defense capabilities, leaving them largely inoperative.

During a press briefing, Leavitt said that the campaign against Iran, dubbed “Operation Epic Fury,” is designed to span four to six weeks and has now reached its 25th day.

She claimed that US forces have struck thousands of targets across Iran so far, adding that the Iranian leadership is now seeking a way out of the current crisis under secure conditions.

According to the spokesperson, President Donald Trump wants to see leadership in Iran that is willing to build constructive relations with the US and abandon policies rooted in hostility, including slogans such as “Death to America.”

She further noted that President Trump has been engaged in “positive and productive” discussions with Iranian officials in recent days, but warned that military operations would intensify if Tehran refuses to accept US terms.

Responding to a question, Leavitt stated unequivocally that President Trump does not require formal authorization from Congress to carry out this large-scale military campaign.

She emphasized that the president is acting in the national interest and does not need additional approval, while the administration continues to operate within constitutional boundaries.

Leavitt added that key congressional leaders were taken into confidence prior to the launch of the operation and that lawmakers continue to receive regular updates on the evolving situation.

Under the US Constitution, the authority to declare war rests with Congress; however, she pointed out that lawmakers recently rejected all resolutions aimed at limiting the president’s war powers.

“The White House has made it clear that if Iran does not promptly seek a ceasefire on US terms, military actions will persist with increased intensity, with the stated objective of rendering Iran’s military capabilities completely ineffective,” the White House said.