The White House defended President Trump's threat to strike Iranian civilian infrastructure, including desalination plants vital to the water supply.

Trump warned of possible bombing of Iranian power plants, oil refineries and Kharg Island if Tehran refuses ceasefire terms and does not immediately open the Strait of Hormuz for trade. Legal experts warn that such strikes would likely violate the Fourth Geneva Convention, which prohibits attacks on civilian infrastructure essential for the population's survival.

US federal law criminalizes war crimes with penalties including life imprisonment or the death penalty if there are casualties. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said that "for the Iranian regime, the best course is to reach a deal, otherwise there will be consequences."

Trump is also considering a high-risk ground operation to seize enriched uranium stockpiles. Thousands of American troops are already deployed in the region. Even Republican congressmen have expressed concern - Representative Tim Burchett said many Republicans would not support escalation with ground troops.