Iran, US suggest nearing deal to end Middle East war

High-ranking officials from the United States and Iran indicated on Saturday that a preliminary agreement to end the Middle East war could be within reach, despite persistent disagreements over the nuclear issue. U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Iran is "getting closer" to accepting a deal, but also warned that Iran faces "a blow so hard" like no country has suffered before if an agreement is not achieved.

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There is a possibility that, either later today, tomorrow, or within a couple of days, we will have something to announce.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism as the Pakistani army chief, a key negotiator between the U.S. and Iran, departed Tehran after nearly two days of talks with Iranian leaders. "There is a possibility that, either later today, tomorrow, or within a couple of days, we will have something to announce," Rubio told reporters in New Delhi, adding that he expected "good news." The U.S. Secretary of State noted progress in negotiations but did not rule out Trump resuming attacks against Iran.

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Our intention was first to draft a memorandum of understanding, a kind of framework agreement composed of 14 clauses.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry also suggested a draft agreement might finally be close. "Our intention was first to draft a memorandum of understanding, a kind of framework agreement composed of 14 clauses," stated Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqai on state television. He referred to this peace progress as a "trend towards rapprochement," but cautioned that "this does not necessarily mean that we and the United States will reach an agreement on the important issues."

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this does not necessarily mean that we and the United States will reach an agreement on the important issues.

France and Qatar have also been actively involved in diplomatic efforts. French President Emmanuel Macron spoke with Trump and leaders from the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan to end the conflict. A diplomatic source told AFP that France is pushing for a diplomatic path and a negotiated solution, prioritizing the complete and toll-free reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a ceasefire, and subsequent negotiations on other aspects like nuclear, ballistic, and regional issues. The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, also held conversations with Trump and leaders from the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

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France is pushing for a diplomatic path and a negotiated solution, prioritizing the complete and toll-free reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a ceasefire, and subsequent negotiations on other aspects like nuclear, ballistic, and regional issues.