US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran was “close to over,” asserting that Tehran was now “badly” seeking a deal with Washington following sustained military and economic pressure.
In an exclusive interview with Fox News, Trump claimed that US military operations had significantly set back Iran’s strategic capabilities. He argued that without American intervention, Iran would have been on track to develop nuclear weapons.
“I think it's close to over. Yeah. I mean, I view it as very close to over,” Trump said. “If I pulled up stakes right now, it would take them 20 years to rebuild that country. And we're not finished. We'll see what happens. I think they want to make a deal very badly.”
Amid escalating tensions, Trump indicated that a second round of negotiations between the US and Iran could take place in Islamabad within days. The talks are aimed at de-escalating the situation in the Gulf region.
According to a report by The New York Post, Trump suggested that developments could unfold rapidly, encouraging close attention to the upcoming diplomatic engagements. “Something could be happening over the next two days, and we're more inclined to go there,” he said.
The initial round of talks, however, ended without a breakthrough. Iran reportedly rejected proposals presented by the US delegation, stalling early progress toward a negotiated settlement.
Separately, Fox News reported that Iran’s willingness to return to the negotiating table may be linked to US decisions regarding a blockade of Iranian ports.
The blockade, enforced by United States Central Command (CENTCOM), has effectively halted maritime trade with Iran, dealing a severe blow to its economy.
Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM, said the operation had achieved rapid results. “A blockade of Iranian ports has been fully implemented as US forces maintain maritime superiority in the Middle East,” he said.
He added that nearly 90 per cent of Iran’s economy depends on international sea trade, and within 36 hours of the blockade’s enforcement, US forces had successfully stopped commercial shipping to and from the country.
While Trump expressed confidence that the war is nearing its conclusion, he also made clear that US operations are ongoing and the situation remains fluid. With diplomatic talks potentially resuming and economic pressure mounting, the coming days are expected to be critical in determining whether the conflict transitions toward a negotiated resolution or further escalation.
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