The White House downplayed Iran's recent seizure of two ships near the Strait of Hormuz, signaling that the incident would not derail potential peace negotiations. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the vessels were neither American nor Israeli and said the action did not violate the cease-fire that President Trump recently extended indefinitely. She urged the media not to exaggerate the episode.

The restrained response contrasts with President Trump's earlier threats to devastate Iran if it disrupted shipping in the vital waterway. The shift in tone suggests the administration is reluctant to escalate a conflict that began alongside Israel in late February and has become increasingly unpopular at home. Although the United States military has carried out extensive strikes, Iran's government remains in place and has not agreed to American demands regarding its nuclear program.

Peace talks are currently stalled, with a planned diplomatic trip postponed until Iran produces a unified proposal. The United States has submitted a written framework addressing key disputes, including uranium enrichment and existing stockpiles. Even as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, the White House continues to highlight battlefield successes while balancing threats with renewed calls for negotiation.