Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Mar 18: The United States is strengthening coordination with its allies in Europe and the Gulf region to protect maritime routes and reopen crucial global shipping lanes amid rising tensions in West Asia, according to Karoline Leavitt, the White House Press Secretary.
Speaking to reporters, Leavitt said the administration is maintaining close discussions with partner nations to ensure the safety of international trade routes and maritime traffic. She said the US President would continue consultations with allied governments across Europe and Gulf countries as part of a broader strategy to maintain regional stability.
Leavitt also highlighted the operational strength of the United States Armed Forces, noting that the military still has significant capabilities as tensions continue in the region. Without sharing operational details, she indicated that ongoing actions were part of a larger plan aimed at safeguarding US interests and restoring secure navigation across strategic waters.
She described recent US military actions as part of efforts to counter threats from Iran and prevent further escalation. According to her, operations carried out by US forces had already weakened hostile naval capabilities and were intended to ensure that Iran cannot develop a nuclear weapon.
The White House also confirmed that the administration’s immediate priority is protecting American personnel and assets in the region. Leavitt praised the US military’s efforts, saying it is working actively to prevent Iran from targeting US forces or interests.
On the diplomatic front, Leavitt revealed that a planned presidential visit to China had been postponed, with both sides currently working on rescheduling the trip. She said the delay was due to domestic commitments in the United States, and new dates would be finalised soon.
Leavitt also addressed the resignation of Joe Kent, who stepped down from his position as a senior counterterrorism official amid disagreements over the administration’s Iran policy. She dismissed criticism raised in Kent’s resignation letter and defended the President’s approach to national security decisions.
According to the Press Secretary, the administration’s stance on Iran is supported by intelligence assessments that view Tehran as a major global sponsor of terrorism. She said Iran is rapidly advancing its ballistic missile capabilities and suggested that recent US military actions were aimed at preventing potential attacks on American troops, bases and strategic assets in the region.