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Esper said, in an impromptuPentagon news conference. According to a statement released by the Pentagon, Esper said that the U.S. message is that the ball is in Irans court, and the United States encourages Iran to de-escalate the situation. Esper added that the U.S. is open to discussing issues and having a more normal relationship with Iran. But if Iran chooses to go the other path, we are prepared to deal with that and will respond forcefully.