Washington, March 20 -- US President Donald Trump on Friday (local time) said the US is not seeking a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict involving Iran, asserting that military operations remain a priority.

"We can have dialogue, but I don't want to do a ceasefire. You don't do a ceasefire when you're literally obliterating the other side... we're not looking to do that," Trump said outside the White House before departing to Palm Beach, Florida.

Commenting on the United Kingdom's decision to allow the United States to use its military bases for strikes on Iranian missile sites targeting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, Trump expressed surprise over the timing of the move.

"I was a little surprised at the UK, to be honest with you. The...