NEW YORK (Web Desk) – U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States is engaged in discussions with Iran as the regional conflict enters its third week, suggesting that Washington’s pressure is pushing Tehran closer to negotiations even though a final agreement has not yet been reached.
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Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump confirmed that diplomatic contacts are taking place but indicated that Iranian leaders are still hesitating to commit to a deal that could end the ongoing war spreading across the Middle East.
“Yes, we’re talking to them,” Trump said when asked whether diplomacy was underway. However, he added that Tehran appears reluctant to finalize an agreement at this stage. “But I don’t think they’re ready. But they are getting pretty close,” he said, signaling that U.S. pressure may be forcing Iran toward the negotiating table.
The conflict, now in its third week, has rattled global markets and raised fears of a broader regional escalation. Energy prices have fluctuated and international leaders have urged restraint as tensions continue to mount across the Middle East.
Trump’s comments suggested that Washington believes its military and economic pressure campaign is having an impact. U.S. officials have repeatedly argued that Iran is facing increasing strain from the ongoing confrontation, which they say has strengthened America’s negotiating position.
Despite Trump’s remarks, Iran’s foreign minister earlier rejected the idea that talks with Washington are taking place. Tehran’s denial highlights the deep mistrust between the two sides and the complicated nature of any potential diplomatic breakthrough.
Still, the U.S. president’s statement indicates that back-channel communications or indirect contacts may be occurring, a common feature of high-stakes international negotiations during periods of conflict.
Analysts say the coming days could prove critical. If Iran moves closer to negotiations, it may signal that the pressure applied by the United States and its allies is beginning to shift the balance of the conflict. For now, Trump’s message was clear: Washington believes it holds the upper hand as diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes.
