Trump Optimistic as Iran War Nears End; Tehran to Respond to US Proposal Today

US President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that the ongoing conflict with Iran will conclude quickly, with Tehran expected to deliver its response to a proposed peace agreement through mediators on Thursday.

Tensions in the Middle East appear to be easing as diplomatic efforts gain momentum. US President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that the war with Iran “will be over quickly,” while pushing for a resolution covering the Strait of Hormuz and Tehran’s nuclear programme. 

According to multiple reports, Iran is set to hand over its formal response to mediators today regarding a US-backed framework aimed at ending hostilities.

Diplomatic Breakthrough on the Horizon

Negotiations have reportedly advanced significantly in recent hours. Sources indicate that a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding is under discussion, though not yet finalised. The proposed deal includes a formal declaration to end the war, followed by a 30-day window for detailed talks on key issues such as navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and potential easing of US sanctions.

Possible venues mentioned for further discussions include Islamabad and Geneva. Trump, speaking during a tele-rally and later at the White House, described recent talks as “very good” and reiterated that Washington’s actions were meant to stop Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. 

Trump Warns of Consequences, Highlights Progress

In a Truth Social post earlier, the US President had warned that failure to agree would lead to intensified military action. However, his tone shifted to one of cautious optimism on Wednesday night. “They want to make a deal, and we’ll see if we can get there,” he remarked during a White House event. 

Trump also shared a chart on Truth Social comparing the current “Iran Excursion,” reportedly lasting about six weeks, with much longer previous US conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Vietnam. He captioned it simply: “Wow. Study this Chart!”

Officials familiar with the matter said the US maintains a strong naval presence in the region, described by Trump as acting like a “steel wall,” restricting Iranian vessel movements. He added that the situation remains “under control.” 

Market Reaction Positive Amid Ceasefire Hopes

Global markets responded favourably to the de-escalation signals. Oil prices fell sharply on Wednesday, with Brent crude settling around $101 per barrel, down nearly 8% from the previous day. Just a week ago, prices had climbed above $120 amid supply fears. 

Equity markets also climbed, reflecting investor relief over potential stabilisation in energy supplies. The developments come against the backdrop of ongoing supply disruptions affecting several regions. 

South Korea, for instance, extended its ban on petroleum stockpiling for another two months to manage domestic fuel market stability. 

Regional Spillovers Continue

While focus remains on US-Iran talks, related tensions persist. Israeli forces carried out strikes in southern Lebanon, including one targeting Erzi town near Sidon and another in Beirut’s southern suburbs that reportedly killed Malek Balou, a commander of Hezbollah’s Radwan Force. 

Four Israeli soldiers were injured in a separate drone attack in southern Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that no terrorist would be safe and emphasised protection for northern Israeli communities.

ASEAN Summit to Discuss Energy Fallout

The broader West Asia crisis is also drawing international attention. Leaders at the ongoing ASEAN summit in Cebu, Philippines, are expected to prioritise discussions on the global fuel crisis and its impact on energy and food security for the region’s nearly 700 million people. 

Analysts note that managing economic fallout from the conflict could take precedence over other regional issues during the meeting. 

What Lies Ahead

Iran’s response today will be crucial in determining whether a ceasefire materialises within the next 48 hours, as some reports suggest is possible. While both sides appear interested in de-escalation, significant differences remain on nuclear issues and sanctions relief. 

Local authorities and shipping trackers continue monitoring maritime movements, with some empty tankers still navigating Iran-linked routes despite sanctions. 

The coming hours could mark a turning point in one of the more intense chapters of recent Middle East tensions, with implications for global energy markets, shipping routes, and regional stability. 

Iranian FM Meets Pak Army Chief as US Pushes Indirect Talks

Islamabad Welcomes Araghchi

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi landed in Islamabad today, greeted by Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Sources indicated the visit centres on regional peace efforts. Pakistan's Foreign Ministry confirmed discussions with senior leaders on ongoing developments. 

Araghchi aims to convey Tehran's "comprehensive" response via Pakistani intermediaries. No direct US talks are planned, despite White House hopes. This follows a fragile ceasefire after weeks of conflict.

US Envoys Arrive

US emissaries Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner headed to the Pakistani capital for in-person conversations. The White House sees this as a chance to restart negotiations. Iran, however, insists observations go through Pakistan only.

Tehran dismissed direct meetings outright. Officials stressed bilateral issues dominate Araghchi's agenda. Egypt and Pakistan voiced hopes for a stable truce during recent calls.

First Talks Fail

Pakistan hosted initial Iran-US talks on April 11-12, lasting 21 hours. Disagreements over Strait of Hormuz control and Iran's nuclear programme stalled progress. The US demands secure shipping lanes and nuclear curbs.

Iran defends its programme as peaceful, rejecting curbs. Tensions spiked after the US imposed a naval blockade. CENTCOM reported intercepting 33 vessels since April 13.

Hormuz Blockade Bites

Over 40 container ships remain stranded in the Gulf, hitting global trade hard. Firms like CMA CGM and MSC reroute, driving up costs. Panama Canal slots now fetch up to $4 million in auctions.

Oil prices surge as airlines warn of ticket hikes. British Airways cited jet fuel shortages. EU aviation authorities eye US-grade fuel imports. 

Iran Flexes Muscle

Defence Ministry spokesman Reza Talaei-Nik claimed Iran produces over 1,000 weapon types domestically, including missiles and drones. A "significant portion" of capabilities stays unused, he added. Facilities spread nationwide ensure continuity.

Iranian MP Ibrahim Azizi ruled out nuclear talks. Internal rifts emerge, with reports of negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf's exit. Hardliner Saeed Jalili may replace him.

Regional Flashpoints

Israeli strikes hit southern Lebanon towns, targeting Hezbollah sites despite ceasefire. Lebanon reported six deaths. IDF and Hezbollah trade violation accusations.

IRGC arrested 240 suspects in Kurdistan and Kermanshah raids, seizing arms. Iran hanged an alleged Israeli agent. Airports in Tehran and Mashhad resume limited flights.

Global Reactions Mount

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth insisted on Hormuz control for world security. Treasury froze $344 million in Iran-linked crypto. Sanctions hit 40 Chinese shippers in Tehran's shadow fleet.

Germany deploys minesweepers for potential Hormuz ops. Russia accused US interventions of oil grabs. Shipping delays signal wider economic pain.

Future Talks Uncertain

Araghchi plans Oman and Russia visits next for coordination. Pakistan eyes a second round to ease escalation. Yet Tehran signals no compromise on core issues like nuclear rights or Hormuz influence.