US-Iran War: Trump Claims Deal is Close as Talks Continue
US President Donald Trump has asserted that Iran is actively seeking a deal to finish the ongoing conflict with the US and Israel, even as his administration engages in negotiations. This comes amid reports of indirect talks and a looming deadline for a potential resolution, though Iran has publicly dismissed claims of direct negotiations.
Latest Developments in US-Iran Talks
Despite President Trump’s optimism, Iran has mocked the US administration’s efforts, suggesting the US is “negotiating with yourselves,” as stated by Ebrahim Zolfaghari, a spokesman for Iran’s military according to the Independent. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi questioned the US calls for negotiations, characterizing Washington’s shift in tone as an admission of failure after previously demanding “unconditional surrender” as reported by CNN.
The US has reportedly shared a 15-point list of expectations with Iran via Pakistan, with potential talks to be held in Islamabad this week. These points include limitations on Tehran’s defense capabilities, a cessation of support for proxies, and acknowledgment of Israel’s right to exist CNN reports.
Military Deployment and Potential Strikes
Despite the ongoing diplomatic efforts, the US is preparing for potential escalation. Approximately 1,000 US soldiers from the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division are expected to deploy to the Middle East in the coming days CNN, suggesting President Trump is maintaining military options. Trump had previously threatened to bomb Iran’s power plants if the Strait of Hormuz wasn’t opened within 48 hours, but postponed those strikes to allow for further negotiations as reported by the Times of Israel.
Israel’s Concerns and Continued Operations
Israel is reportedly accelerating its attacks on Iranian targets due to concerns that Trump might abruptly end the war according to the New York Times. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed the military to target as many high-priority targets in Iran as possible within the next 48 hours. Netanyahu believes the campaign is “continuing at full force” and is focused on dismantling Hezbollah CNN.
US Objectives and Timeline
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that US operations are ahead of the initial four-to-six-week timeline set for achieving the core objectives of “Operation Epic Fury.” She affirmed that the US is “very close to meeting” these objectives as reported by the Times of Israel.
Temporary Removal of Iranian Officials from Hit List
US and Israeli officials have temporarily removed Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf from a list of potential targets in an attempt to encourage negotiations according to the Wall Street Journal. Though, US officials cited by the Journal expressed skepticism about the prospects for successful talks.
Iran’s Conditions for a Ceasefire
Iran has indicated that any ceasefire agreement must include a halt to Israel’s attacks on Hezbollah, an Iranian proxy, and an end to the war on “resistance groups” in the region CNN. Iran has reacted negatively to the US’s 15-point plan, which reportedly demands the dismantling of its nuclear program and limitations on its ballistic missiles.
President Trump stated that Iranian officials are hesitant to publicly acknowledge negotiations due to fear of retribution from their own people or from the US as reported by the AP.