The White House reacted after a New York Times report said that Donald Trump, the U.S. president, has dropped plans to significantly escalate military operations against the Islamic Republic, and emphasized that he is still keeping all options on the table.

Steven Cheung, the White House communications director, told Fox News Digital: “The president has been steadfast in saying that he prefers a diplomatic solution, but if Iran continues terrorist activity in the Strait of Hormuz or against America’s allies, he will continue to keep all options on the table.”

He said: “After successful sanctions that have paralyzed Iran’s economy, as well as 13 days of attacks on military targets in response to their repeated transgressions, it is reasonable that Iran should try to achieve an agreement through negotiations. Otherwise, they know what will happen.”