Trump Announces Potential Peace Deal with Iran Amidst Tensions
US-Iran Conflict Nearing Resolution
A file image of US President Donald Trump (Photo: IANS)
Washington, June 12: On Thursday, US President Donald Trump asserted that the ongoing conflict with Iran is effectively over, revealing that a peace agreement could be finalized in Europe as soon as this weekend.
This announcement followed Trump's earlier threats of military action against Iran and a warning regarding a potential takeover of Kharg Island, which is crucial for the country's oil exports. However, he later indicated that planned military actions were halted due to significant advancements in negotiations.
During a press briefing in the Oval Office, Trump mentioned that a comprehensive agreement was close to completion, with Vice President J D Vance anticipated to participate in the signing ceremony.
Trump expressed optimism, stating, "A deal is very close. It could be signed quickly," highlighting that negotiations had reached a critical juncture.
He attributed the breakthrough to discussions with various Middle Eastern leaders, including those from Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait, and noted that Pakistan was also consulted during the latest talks.
Later, while addressing a tele-rally supporting Georgia's Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, who is campaigning for the governorship, Trump further claimed that the United States had effectively concluded its conflict with Iran.
"I don't know if you heard, but we ended the war with Iran today, and they have agreed never to have a nuclear weapon, something that we insisted on. That was the whole purpose," Trump stated.
The President emphasized that Iran had committed to permanently renouncing any efforts to develop or acquire nuclear weapons, describing the proposed agreement as a comprehensive memorandum of understanding formalizing Tehran's commitments.
"They will not purchase, develop in any way, shape or form a nuclear weapon. They will not have a nuclear weapon," Trump reiterated.
He characterized the proposed accord as a "very strong memorandum of understanding," indicating that it was detailed and expected to evolve into a formal agreement within days.
Trump also noted that financial markets appeared to respond positively to the news of the breakthrough, and he mentioned that the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil supplies, would fully reopen once the agreement was finalized.
This announcement represents a significant departure from Trump's earlier statements. Earlier that day, he had warned that the US could strike Iran "very hard" and even take control of Kharg Island if tensions escalated. However, those threats seemed to be set aside as diplomatic efforts gained traction.
When asked what led Iran to agree to the proposed deal, Trump suggested that sustained pressure had made Tehran eager for a resolution.
"They've taken a pounding like very few people could take, and they want to make the deal a lot more than I do," he remarked.
The recent developments follow weeks of speculation regarding a potential agreement between Washington and Tehran. Trump had consistently indicated that negotiations were advancing and that both parties were nearing a settlement, although a formal breakthrough had yet to materialize.