President Trump told ABC News that negotiations with Iran remain on track and a deal could be finalized within the next seven days, despite a brief disruption in talks earlier Monday.
Trump spoke by telephone with ABC News chief Washington correspondent Jonathan Karl, expressing confidence in the negotiation process. The president acknowledged a “glitch” had emerged during talks but said he quickly resolved the issue.
According to Trump, the problem arose after Iran objected to Israeli military operations involving Lebanon. “So, I spoke with Hezbollah, and I said no shooting, and I talked to Bibi [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu], and said, no shooting, and they both stopped shooting each other,” Trump said.
What the President Said
Trump suggested a diplomatic agreement with Iran could be more valuable than a military outcome. “A peace agreement with Iran could be even better than a military victory,” he said.
The president cautioned that finalizing an agreement remains difficult given the lengthy history of tensions between Washington and Tehran. “It’s not a simple thing,” Trump said, noting both countries face obstacles in reaching a settlement.
When asked about the timeline for a memorandum of understanding to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Trump offered a compressed schedule. “I think you’re talking about over the next week,” he said, adding that several outstanding points still require resolution.
The Earlier Disruption
Iran announced Monday that communications with the United States had halted due to what it characterized as Israeli aggression in Lebanon. The statement raised questions about whether negotiations could collapse.
Trump later signaled through social media that discussions had not broken down. The president stated negotiations are moving forward at a “rapid pace” and continuing with Iran.
Trump also claimed on social media that he personally intervened to prevent escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. He said he secured assurances from Netanyahu that Israeli troops would not enter Beirut, and through intermediaries, obtained Hezbollah’s agreement to halt attacks on Israel.
Broader Context
The negotiations aim to transform the current ceasefire into a comprehensive peace agreement. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane carrying a significant volume of international oil exports, remains a central focus of discussions.
Reaching a lasting agreement could have substantial consequences for energy markets, regional stability, and international commerce. Iran has not yet publicly confirmed that talks have resumed following the earlier disruption.
This story has been updated. CNN’s international affairs team contributed to this report.
