Trump Declares Iran War ‘Close to Over’ as Pakistan Army Chief Arrives in Tehran

In a significant development in U.S.-Iran relations, President Donald Trump announced that the ongoing war with Iran is nearing its conclusion. He urged the global community to prepare for what he described as “an amazing two days.” This statement coincided with the arrival of Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, in Tehran, who is acting as a key mediator to avert further conflict.

The diplomatic initiative follows a round of negotiations in Pakistan that ended without a resolution on Sunday. U.S. and Iranian officials are considering a return to Islamabad for further discussions, indicating a continued commitment to dialogue.

Diplomatic Efforts Intensify

Field Marshal Munir’s arrival in Tehran was confirmed by Pakistan’s military. A senior Iranian official indicated that Munir’s mission aims to “narrow gaps” between the two sides, reflecting a renewed push for peace.

Trump expressed optimism about the situation, stating that he believes the conflict is “very close to over.” He emphasized that he does not foresee the need to extend a two-week ceasefire set to expire next week. In an interview on Fox Business Network, he remarked, “I think they want to make a deal very badly.”

Potential Resumption of Talks

Officials from Pakistan, Iran, and Gulf states have indicated that both parties may return to Islamabad in the coming days. The previous talks broke down without an agreement to end the war, which Trump initiated alongside Israel on February 28. This military action has led to Iranian attacks on Gulf neighbors and escalated tensions between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Trump’s optimistic outlook has positively influenced global stock markets, pushing them toward record highs. Oil prices, which had dipped earlier in the week, have stabilized around $95 per barrel following reports that the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports has disrupted maritime trade.

U.S. Military Actions

The U.S. military has intensified its operations, turning back vessels attempting to navigate through critical waterways. Notably, the U.S.-sanctioned, Chinese-owned tanker Rich Starry was seen reversing course through the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, a U.S. destroyer intercepted two oil tankers trying to depart from Iran’s Chabahar port.

Despite the blockade, an Iranian supertanker reportedly crossed into Iranian waters, according to Iran’s Fars News agency. While both nations have avoided major confrontations at sea since the blockade began, Iran has warned of retaliation against any military actions.

Iran’s Stance

Iran’s joint military command has issued a warning that it will halt trade flows in the Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea if the U.S. blockade persists. Trump has also threatened to escalate military actions if the conflict resumes, stating that the U.S. could incapacitate Iran’s infrastructure swiftly if necessary.

In a separate statement, Trump indicated that his negotiators are likely to return to Pakistan, crediting Munir for his effective mediation efforts. Vice President JD Vance, who led the U.S. delegation during the last round of talks, acknowledged the desire for a “grand bargain” with Iran but noted the significant mistrust between the two nations.

Key Issues in Negotiations

A major sticking point in the negotiations has been Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The U.S. proposed a 20-year suspension of all nuclear activities, a shift from its previous demand for a permanent ban. In contrast, Iran suggested a temporary halt of 3 to 5 years. Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, stated that the duration of any moratorium on uranium enrichment is a political decision and hinted that Iran might be open to a compromise.

Washington has also called for the removal of enriched nuclear material from Iran, while Tehran has insisted on the lifting of international sanctions.

Back-Channel Progress

Sources involved in the negotiations have reported that back-channel discussions have made progress in bridging gaps, potentially paving the way for a new round of talks. However, the situation remains complicated by ongoing Israeli military actions in Lebanon targeting Hezbollah. Both Israel and the U.S. assert that these actions fall outside the ceasefire agreement, while Iran maintains that they do not.

Israel’s security cabinet is scheduled to meet to discuss a potential ceasefire in Lebanon, following rare talks between Israeli and Lebanese officials in Washington.

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Published on 2026-04-15 22:29:00 • By the Editorial Desk