The White House said Thursday that no negotiations are currently underway with Iran, as the administration of President Donald Trump moves to intensify economic pressure on Tehran.

White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told Fox News that Washington is currently focused on “Operation Economic Outcast,” a campaign announced this week by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent aimed at tightening sanctions and increasing pressure on Iran’s economy.

According to the Trump administration’s assessment, Iran is facing severe economic difficulties. Leavitt claimed that inflation has exceeded 100% and that Iranian authorities are struggling to meet payments to members of the police and military.

She said Bessent and Trump were continuing to use “every economic tool available” to increase pressure on Tehran.

Asked about the possibility of renewed diplomacy, Leavitt said there were “no negotiations taking place at this time.” She added that the situation would remain unchanged until Trump determines that Iran is prepared to return to the negotiating table for what Washington considers serious and effective talks.

Leavitt emphasized that the final decision on whether to pursue negotiations rests with Trump. She also reiterated that the president is keeping “all options on the table,” signaling that Washington has not ruled out measures beyond economic pressure.

Leavitt linked the administration’s economic campaign to previous US military operations against Iran, saying that “Operation Epic Fury” had significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities, according to the administration’s assessment.

She said Trump’s primary objective remains preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, presenting the intensified economic campaign as part of a broader strategy to pressure Tehran over its nuclear program.

Leavitt also said the maritime blockade imposed on Iran remains in effect and described its results as “very successful.” She further claimed that the United States effectively controls the Strait of Hormuz and that the major international shipping route remains open because of the presence of US forces.

The comments followed Washington’s announcement of a new package of economic measures against Iran under “Operation Economic Outcast.” The measures are intended to restrict Tehran’s sources of revenue and strengthen secondary sanctions against entities that continue doing business with Iran.