India, Jan. 13 -- WASHINGTON, D.C., January 13 - White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed Monday that President Donald Trump is actively considering the option of air strikes against Iran as the administration responds to a violent crackdown on protests that has left at least 599 dead. Leavitt stressed that diplomacy remains the first priority, while acknowledging that military force is firmly "on the table."

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump is "always keeping all of his options on the table" in response to Iran's violent suppression of protests. When asked specifically, she confirmed, "air strikes would be one of the many, many options that are on the table for the commander in chief."She emphas...