National security adviser Mike Waltz says all options are on the table in responding to Iran

Soror Shaiza | Mar 16, 2025, 23:36 IST

( Image credit : AP )

In the wake of new airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz made it clear that the U.S. is considering all possible responses to Iran’s actions. His comments, made on ABC’s This Week, emphasize the seriousness of U.S. concerns over Iran’s support for militant groups.

Mike Waltz’s Firm Stance on Iran

During an interview on This Week, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz stated that “all options are always on the table” when asked about the possibility of direct military action against Iran. This statement comes as tensions continue to rise due to Iran’s support for various militant groups in the Middle East. The U.S. has already launched airstrikes on Houthi-controlled regions in Yemen after the group attacked American vessels, which Waltz referred to as a "completely unacceptable" escalation.

U.S. Strikes on Houthi Rebels in Yemen

In a move directly linked to Iran’s influence in the region, the U.S. launched airstrikes on Saturday against Houthi positions in Yemen. The Houthis, an Iran-backed rebel group, have been involved in several attacks on shipping vessels, including those of the U.S. Navy. The strikes were announced by former President Donald Trump, who emphasized the U.S. will not tolerate such aggression. Trump made strong statements on social media, warning Iran that support for the Houthis must stop immediately or face consequences.

U.S.-Russia Diplomatic Moves on Ukraine

Alongside the focus on Iran, Waltz also addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine, noting that while diplomacy continues, it’s unrealistic to expect Ukraine to regain all the territory it lost to Russian occupation. Waltz highlighted that continuing the war endlessly, with mounting casualties, could escalate into a larger global conflict. His comments reflect the complex balancing act between military strategy and diplomatic efforts to find a ceasefire.

Trump's Engagement with Russia

In related news, former U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, mentioned that his recent talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin were "positive." Witkoff hinted at upcoming conversations between Trump and Putin, fueling speculation about how the Trump administration might shift its approach to global conflicts like the war in Ukraine. During his campaign, Trump claimed he could end the war in Ukraine swiftly, although he later clarified those statements as somewhat sarcastic.

In conclusion, Waltz's comments and recent military actions reflect the growing tensions with Iran and the broader geopolitical challenges the U.S. faces in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. As diplomacy continues, the U.S. is prepared to take a wide range of actions in response to these ongoing threats.