U.S. President Donald Trump has said that a deal to end the conflict with Iran is close to being finalized and could be signed within days. However, Iranian officials have dismissed the claim, stating that no final decision has been reached.
Trump told reporters on Thursday at the White House that negotiators had reached what he described as a “great settlement,” adding that the agreement was subject to final documentation and could be signed as early as this weekend in Europe.
He also stated that the deal would ensure Iran does not develop nuclear weapons and that the Strait of Hormuz would reopen once the agreement is finalized.
Despite these claims, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said discussions were still ongoing, describing reports of a finalized agreement as speculative. He said Iran had not agreed to a conclusion and insisted that Tehran would not compromise on its core positions.
The conflicting statements come amid continued tensions between the two countries, which have exchanged strikes in recent months despite a previously announced ceasefire. The conflict has raised concerns over stability in the Gulf region, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route for oil and gas.
Financial markets reacted positively to Trump’s remarks, with oil prices falling and global stocks rising on hopes of a possible de-escalation. Brent crude dropped to its lowest level in two months.
However, tensions remain high on the ground. Reports indicate continued military activity in the region, including drone interceptions and attempted attacks on commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz.
The United States has maintained that any agreement must prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, while Iran has demanded the lifting of sanctions and recognition of its rights over strategic maritime routes.
International reactions have been mixed, with several countries calling for restraint and renewed diplomatic engagement to avoid further escalation.
As negotiations continue, uncertainty remains over whether a final agreement will be reached or whether the latest diplomatic signals will once again fail to translate into a lasting peace deal.
