State Department spokesman outlines U.S. support for Israel and opposition to Iran obtaining nuclear weapons

Tommy Piggott, principal deputy spokesperson at the U.S. Department of State, said the United States “stand[s] with Israel and we stand for peace” and affirmed Israel’s right to defend itself, while also repeating the administration’s position that Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon.

“We also stand with Israel’s right to defend itself,” Piggott said. He added that the department wants to see hostages held by Hamas released and that the administration has said “Hamas cannot continue to exist.”

On Iran, Piggott said President Trump has repeatedly stated that Iran “can never have a nuclear weapon” and that the administration prefers a diplomatic outcome but believes the Iranian regime must decide swiftly which path to take. Piggott described the administration’s approach as offering two options for Iran — a diplomatic “good option” preferred by the president, and a less desirable alternative if Iran pursues a weapons program.

Piggott framed both policy lines as tied to U.S. and regional security: supporting Israel’s defense, seeking release of hostages, preventing a nuclear-armed Iran and pursuing diplomacy as the preferred route. The spokesperson did not announce new policy changes or cite specific orders or agreements in the remarks.

The comments were given during a department video Q&A and reflect the administration’s articulated priorities rather than a new formal action announced in the session.