US and Iran negotiations for potential peace deal continue
US President Donald Trump stated that negotiations with Iran regarding a potential peace deal are ongoing and constructive, although he has instructed his representatives not to rush the process. Trump emphasized that the current naval blockade of Iranian ports will remain in full effect until a formal agreement is reached, ratified, and signed. The negotiations, mediated by Pakistan, aim to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively blocked since the conflict began on February 28. While Trump and some US sources suggest progress is being made regarding uranium enrichment management, Iranian state media and reports indicate conflicting positions on whether the Strait will remain under Iranian management. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed a discussion with President Trump, maintaining that Israel reserves the right to defend itself against threats on all fronts, including Lebanon. Some reports suggest the US is seeking to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, while Iranian sources emphasize that a deal would require a total cessation of hostilities. Expectations for an immediate agreement remain tempered, with Trump previously describing the likelihood of a deal as 50-50.