Trump Signals Potential End to Iran War as Allies Gather to Discuss Strait of Hormuz
President Donald Trump indicated that a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Iran could be imminent, although the exact timing remains uncertain. This announcement coincides with a gathering of U.S. allies on Friday to deliberate on the reopening of the crucial Strait of Hormuz shipping route.
Trump noted that a two-week ceasefire, set to expire next week, might be extended. However, he expressed skepticism about the necessity of such an extension, suggesting that Tehran is eager for a deal. He remarked, “We’re going to see what happens. But I think we’re very close to making a deal with Iran,” and mentioned the possibility of traveling to Islamabad for a signing ceremony if an agreement is reached.
In Islamabad, where recent negotiations took place, military presence was noted along routes leading into the capital, yet roads remained accessible, and the government had not mandated business closures as it had prior to previous meetings.
The conflict, which began with a U.S.-Israeli offensive on February 28, has resulted in significant casualties and instability across the Middle East. The hostilities have effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for approximately 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas, raising concerns about a potential global oil crisis.
The International Monetary Fund recently revised its global growth forecasts downward, warning that the prolonged conflict could push the world economy toward recession.
Restoring Freedom of Navigation
France and Britain are set to co-chair a meeting on Friday with around 40 nations, aiming to convey to the U.S. that several key allies are prepared to assist in restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, contingent upon the cessation of hostilities. Trump has previously urged other nations to engage in the conflict and criticized NATO allies for their lack of involvement.
A communication sent to invited nations outlined the meeting’s objective: to reaffirm diplomatic support for unrestricted navigation through the waterway and emphasize the importance of adhering to international law. Currently, Iran has largely restricted access to the strait for vessels other than its own, while the U.S. has implemented a blockade on ships entering or leaving Iranian ports.
Since the onset of the conflict, the number of vessels passing through the strait has drastically decreased, averaging only a trickle compared to over 130 daily before the hostilities began. The prospect of a deal has spurred a notable rally in global stock markets, which remain near record highs, while benchmark oil prices have stabilized below $100 per barrel.
Backdoor Diplomacy Progress
A Pakistani source involved in mediating discussions between the U.S. and Iran reported progress in backdoor diplomacy on Friday. An upcoming meeting between the two parties could lead to the signing of a memorandum of understanding, paving the way for a comprehensive agreement within 60 days.
The source indicated that both sides are in principle agreement, with technical details to be addressed later. A significant point of contention has been Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The U.S. proposed a 20-year suspension of all Iranian nuclear activities during last weekend’s talks, while Tehran suggested a halt of three to five years.
Iran has called for the lifting of international sanctions, while Washington has insisted on the removal of any highly enriched uranium from Iran. Two Iranian sources have indicated that there may be a compromise regarding the HEU stockpile, with Tehran contemplating the possibility of exporting part of it.
Lebanon Ceasefire Goes into Effect
In parallel developments, a U.S.-backed ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, aimed at halting hostilities involving Iran-backed Hezbollah, appeared to be largely holding on Friday. Despite reports from the Lebanese Army of violations by Israel, the ceasefire has been largely effective.
Pakistan, acting as a mediator, stated that a concurrent ceasefire in Lebanon is crucial for any discussions aimed at resolving the conflict in Iran. The fighting in Lebanon reignited on March 2 when Hezbollah launched attacks on northern Israel in support of Tehran, prompting a retaliatory Israeli offensive that has reportedly resulted in 2,000 casualties.
There was no immediate response from the Israeli military regarding the reported ceasefire violations. Celebratory gunfire was heard across parts of Beirut as the ceasefire commenced at midnight on Thursday. Displaced individuals began returning to their homes on Friday, assessing the condition of their properties amid concerns that the ceasefire may be fragile.
In the heavily damaged southern city of Nabatieh, some returning residents expressed determination to stay, while others lamented the destruction. One resident, Fadel Badreddine, who returned with his family, described the situation as “unliveable” and expressed a desire for lasting peace.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-04-17 14:44:00 • By the Editorial Desk
