The White House press secretary said Thursday that the vice president and the president are aligned on Iran policy, dismissing claims of contradictory messaging.
The comments followed an interview in which the vice president, who is leading negotiations with Iran, argued that talks remain necessary to reach a long-term deal.
That stance appeared to contrast with the president’s earlier declaration that a ceasefire with Iran was “over” after repeated violations of a memorandum of understanding signed the prior month.
The president had sharply criticized Iranian leaders, describing them as dishonest and dangerous, and said he no longer wished to engage with them.
The vice president told the interviewer he is frustrated by those who oppose any negotiation with Iran, arguing that diplomacy is required to end the conflict and prevent the country from building a nuclear weapon.
He questioned critics who reject talks, asking what alternative they propose to stop attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz beyond limited military strikes.
The vice president said that once the president makes a decision he believes is legal and ethical, his role is to help execute it as successfully as possible.
He defended the use of military force as a tool to compel negotiations, saying strikes are targeted at facilities used to attack ships rather than open-ended campaigns.
The vice president contrasted this approach with figures who favor prolonged military action without clear objectives.
A media report highlighted a single remark from the interview to suggest mixed messaging between the vice president and the president.
The press secretary responded that the statements were made at different points in the conflict and that both leaders are on the same page regarding the current posture.
She said internal fragmentation within the Iranian regime shows recent military operations were effective in weakening its coordination and overall strength.
The press secretary added that the administration will hold Iran accountable for broken commitments while remaining open to diplomacy.
