The White House said Thursday that President Donald Trump remains open to diplomacy with Iran, even as hostilities flare in the Strait of Hormuz. Officials confirmed that Washington continues to engage Tehran despite recent clashes.

The remarks followed Trump’s public thanks to Iran for releasing a U.S. citizen detained since December 2024, a gesture viewed as a potential diplomatic opening.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters: “The president will hold them accountable when they turn their back on the words they state to the United States. But he is always open to diplomacy at the very same time.”

Leavitt added that Iran has signaled interest in a deal, but warned that attacks on shipping would draw consequences.

A fragile ceasefire agreed in June is now under strain after U.S. strikes in recent days aimed at curbing Iran’s ability to threaten maritime traffic. Trump has cautioned that further escalation could include strikes on infrastructure such as power plants and bridges unless Tehran returns to negotiations.