Trump Says Iran Deal “Very Possible” but Warns of Strikes if Negotiations Fail

US President Donald Trump has said that a nuclear agreement with Iran is “very possible,” while also warning that military strikes could resume if ongoing negotiations fail.

Despite expressing optimism, Iran has not yet issued a formal response to a new US proposal. Iranian officials have criticized Washington, with Tehran’s chief negotiator accusing the US of attempting to force the country’s “surrender.”

Signs of possible diplomatic progress emerged after Trump paused a limited military operation aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, citing hopes for a negotiated settlement.

Trump stated, “if Iran agrees to give what has been agreed to,” the conflict would end, but warned that if talks collapse, “the bombing would resume at a much higher level and intensity.”

He later told reporters, “We’ve had very good talks over the last 24 hours, and it’s very possible that we’ll make a deal.”

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei confirmed that “the US plan and proposal are still under review,” adding that Tehran will share its position with mediator Pakistan after finalizing its response.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused Washington of using “a naval blockade, economic pressure and media manipulation” to weaken Iran and force political submission.

On the ground, tensions remain high in the region. The US military reportedly fired on and disabled a tanker attempting to breach restrictions near Iranian ports, escalating maritime confrontations.

Trump earlier stated that US restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz would remain, but later said enforcement could be temporarily paused to allow time for a possible agreement.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism, stating, “We are very hopeful that the current momentum will lead to a lasting agreement that secures durable peace and stability for the region and beyond.”

Reports from US media suggest both sides are close to a preliminary memorandum of understanding that could outline a framework for future nuclear negotiations.

Trump also insisted that Iran would be required to hand over enriched uranium to the United States, though no detailed mechanism has been provided for how this would be implemented.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing, where they discussed ongoing negotiations and potential post-conflict regional frameworks.

Tensions escalated further in the Middle East as Israel carried out strikes in Lebanon, killing a senior Hezbollah commander and several others, according to regional reports.

The US and allied nations are also reportedly preparing a UN Security Council resolution demanding Iran halt certain military activities and disclose key operational details, though its approval remains uncertain.