President Donald Trump stated in an interview with Axios on Saturday that he would meet with his negotiators later that day to discuss Iran's latest offer, with a decision expected by Sunday regarding the potential resumption of military actions. Trump described the likelihood of reaching a favorable deal as a "solid 50/50."
He is scheduled to hold a conference call with Gulf leaders, including those from Egypt, Pakistan, and Turkey, to discuss the situation with Iran. A senior Israeli official indicated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in contact with the White House regarding the negotiations.
Senator Lindsey Graham mentioned that some regional leaders have advised Trump to take military action against Iran to weaken its regime, while others, including some of Trump's advisers, have recommended accepting the current deal. They argue that Iranian influence in the Strait of Hormuz poses a significant threat to Gulf oil operations.
Trump plans to meet with advisers, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, to review Iran's latest response. Pakistani Field Marshal Asim Munir, who has been mediating discussions, recently left Tehran after meeting with Iranian officials, reporting encouraging progress toward a potential agreement.
Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson stated that discussions are in the final stages regarding a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at ending hostilities, which would also address issues like reopening the Strait of Hormuz and lifting the U.S. blockade. A subsequent negotiation period of 30 to 60 days is anticipated to finalize a detailed agreement.
Trump emphasized that any deal must address uranium enrichment and the status of Iran's existing stockpile, although these issues may not be resolved in the current MOU discussions. Regional mediators have been actively engaging with both parties to facilitate negotiations.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that there has been some progress in talks, asserting that Iran must relinquish its nuclear ambitions and that the Strait of Hormuz should be fully reopened. He acknowledged that the positions of the U.S. and Iran on these matters remain largely irreconcilable.