Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran is nearing its end, sparking widespread speculation about the possibility of renewed peace talks between Washington and Tehran in the near future.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Trump made these remarks during an interview with Fox News. Meanwhile, Pakistani officials are actively working to facilitate the resumption of negotiations between the United States and Iran following inconclusive marathon talks held in Islamabad over the weekend.
Trump expressed optimism about the situation, stating, "I think it's close to over. I mean I view it as very close to over ... What if I pulled up stakes right now. It would take them 20 years to rebuild that country. We're not finished. We'll see what happens." He further emphasized that Iran is eager to make a deal, mentioning the possibility of reaching an agreement before King Charles III's visit to Washington later this month.
When negotiations pick up again, it is expected that the U.S. and Iran will address several high-stakes issues, including U.S. demands for Iran to abandon its nuclear program and remove its stockpile of enriched uranium. In return, Iran seeks the release of its frozen assets, the lifting of sanctions, and the right to regulate traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for global oil and gas shipments.
On Tuesday, U.S. Vice President JD Vance highlighted Trump's preference for a "grand bargain" with Iran, implying a desire for a comprehensive peace agreement that encompasses nuclear and other significant issues.