Trump Discusses Potential Peace Agreement with Iran Amid Ongoing Negotiations

President Donald Trump has stated that the chances of reaching a peace agreement with Iran are currently at 50%. As negotiations continue, he is expected to decide on military action by May 24. Regional mediators from various countries are involved in discussions, with reports of encouraging progress. Trump has reviewed a draft agreement but has not confirmed its approval. The situation remains fluid, with potential developments anticipated soon. This article delves into the complexities of the negotiations and the implications for US-Iran relations.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 23, 2026, 23:15 IST

Trump's Stance on Iran Negotiations

President Donald Trump has indicated that the likelihood of achieving a peace deal with Iran stands at "a solid 50/50." He mentioned that he would likely make a decision by May 24 regarding the possibility of military action, stating he could "blow them to kingdom come." Ahead of discussions with US envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner, Trump noted that talks were ongoing concerning Iran's latest feedback on a US-supported peace initiative, as reported by a news outlet.

Vice-President JD Vance is also anticipated to participate in these discussions. This comes as diplomatic efforts intensify, with regional mediators from Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan engaging in talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US representatives. Negotiators from Pakistan and Qatar arrived in Tehran on Friday to facilitate an agreement. Pakistan later reported "encouraging progress toward a final understanding," although a formal deal has yet to be reached.

Trump shared with CBS News that he had reviewed a "draft" agreement but did not confirm whether he had given it his approval. He remarked, "They're getting a lot closer." Additionally, sources indicate that Trump is expected to hold a conference call with Gulf leaders, including those from Egypt, Pakistan, and Turkey, to address the ongoing crisis.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, currently in India, suggested that there might be updates in the negotiations soon, although he refrained from predicting a breakthrough. He stated, "There may be news later today. I don't have news at this very moment, but there might be some news a little later today. I hope there will be, but I'm not sure yet." Meanwhile, Pakistan's Field Marshal Asim Munir concluded his visit to Tehran after discussions with senior Iranian officials as part of mediation efforts.

The latest draft proposal reportedly stems from the Iran-Pakistan discussions. Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson indicated that Tehran and Washington are nearing the final stages of talks regarding a memorandum of understanding aimed at resolving the conflict. This proposed agreement is expected to include measures for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, lifting the US blockade, and releasing frozen Iranian assets.

The spokesperson added that the memorandum would initiate a 30 to 60-day negotiation period to establish a more comprehensive agreement. Trump has emphasized that any eventual deal must tackle Iran's uranium enrichment activities and the status of its current uranium stockpile. However, officials familiar with the discussions suggest that these matters are unlikely to be fully resolved in the initial memorandum being considered.

Regarding the potential for renewed military action, Trump stated, "I think one of two things will happen: either I hit them harder than they have ever been hit, or we are going to sign a deal that is good." He acknowledged that while some advocate for diplomacy, others lean towards military action, and he dismissed claims that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was worried about the US accepting an unfavorable agreement. Trump described Netanyahu as "torn," although Israeli officials reportedly express that the prime minister remains significantly concerned about the terms under discussion and has urged the US to consider further military strikes.