WASHINGTON: A new claim has emerged over the reasons behind White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s decision to leave her post at the end of August, after an Iranian embassy accused her of resigning because of disillusionment with US President Donald Trump.
The Iranian Embassy in South Africa made the claim in a social media post featuring a photograph of Leavitt, while sharply criticizing Trump. The embassy also reportedly referred to an incident involving Trump’s security arrangements amid concerns over a threat from Iran.
However, there is no credible evidence establishing the Iranian embassy’s claim as the actual reason for Leavitt’s departure.
Leavitt and the White House have given a different explanation. Leavitt has said she wants to spend more time with her two young children, explaining that the demanding schedule of the White House press secretary’s position has made it difficult for her to give her family the time she believes they need. Trump has publicly supported her decision.
Trump announced that Leavitt will leave the position at the end of August. He has also said she will continue to play a role as a senior outside adviser and remain an influential figure within the Republican Party.
Leavitt, 28, recently returned to work after maternity leave following the birth of her second child. Her departure comes after roughly 20 months as White House press secretary, a position she assumed in January 2025 and in which she became the youngest person to hold the post.
While reports and commentary have raised questions about the circumstances surrounding her departure, the publicly stated reason remains her desire to spend more time with her young family. The Iranian embassy’s allegation that tensions with Trump prompted her resignation remains unverified.
