Trump calls on Arab states to help fund Iran war as White House says talks with Tehran continue

US President Donald Trump calls on Arab states to help fund Iran war, the White House indicated on Monday.

Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary, said Trump has shown interest in asking Gulf and Arab countries to share the cost of the conflict.

At a press briefing, Leavitt said she would not speak ahead of the president, but confirmed this idea comes from Trump. She said the president may talk more about it soon.

Leavitt also said talks with Iran are moving forward. She noted that public statements from Tehran differ from private messages the US receives.

Leavitt repeated that what Iran says in public is not the same as what it tells US officials during private discussions.

Earlier on Monday, Trump warned Iran that the US could destroy its energy infrastructure if Tehran refuses to open the Strait of Hormuz.

Tehran rejected what it called “unrealistic” peace proposals and launched missile barrages toward Israel, deepening tensions.

The Pentagon has told Congress that the Trump administration spent more than $11.3 billion in the first six days of the Iran war. This number excludes damage costs, which could add another $1.4 billion to $2.9 billion, according to defence budget experts.

Trump claimed the leadership in Iran is changing. He said the old regime was weakened and new leaders are now engaging in talks.

But US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that while new leadership might be more moderate, the US must stay ready for all outcomes.

Leavitt said Washington will test Tehran’s private commitments. She warned Iran that if it fails to honour private agreements, the US will enforce consequences promised by Trump.