US President Donald Trump appeared optimistic that the war with Iran is nearing an end, as Washington continues negotiations aimed at a comprehensive agreement that would limit Tehran's nuclear program and allow for the resumption of economic relations. Donald Trump said the conflict with Iran is nearing its end, according to excerpts of an interview he gave to journalist Maria Bartiromo for Fox News' "Morning with Marian," which is expected to air today. During the interview, the US president claimed that his intervention prevented Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. "I think it is - I had to intervene, because if I didn't, Iran would have a nuclear weapon right now," he said, adding: "And if they had a nuclear weapon, you would be calling everyone there 'sir' - and you wouldn't want to do that." When asked directly if the war was over, he replied: “I think it’s close to the end, yes. I think it’s very close to the end.”
US Vice President JD Vance also expressed optimism about the progress of the contacts, noting that Washington is seeking a broader agreement with Iran.
Vance, who participated in talks with Iranian officials in Islamabad over the weekend, said that despite the longstanding distrust between the two countries, the interlocutors "want to have a deal."
Speaking at an event organized by the organization Turning Point USA in Athens, Georgia, he emphasized that the goal of the American side is a comprehensive agreement ("grand deal"), which will ensure that Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons, does not support terrorism, and can integrate into the global economy.
"He doesn't want a small deal. He wants a big deal," he said, referring to Donald Trump.
JD Vance is said to be leading a second round of talks with Iranian officials if the talks move forward before the ceasefire expires next week.
The potential talks are also expected to include US President Donald Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, Donald Trump's son-in-law, who have been undertaking diplomatic initiatives since before the war began.
The three advisors are tasked with crafting a diplomatic solution that could lead to a reduction in conflict tensions.
The US president also said that "something could happen" in Pakistan in the next two days, as efforts to restart negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue.
A US official said future talks were under discussion, but no specific date had been set.
