Donald Trump claims Tehran could take decades to recover if hostilities ended now, as US Central Command reports successful blockade of Iranian ports and movement in the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump Says Iran War Is “Very Close To Being Over”
Donald Trump has said the ongoing conflict with Iran is nearing its conclusion, claiming the country would take decades to rebuild if the United States halted operations immediately.
“I think it’s close to over, yeah. I view it as very close to being over,” Trump said during an interview with Fox News for the programme Mornings with Maria, recorded Tuesday and scheduled to air later Wednesday.
The US President added that decisive action was necessary to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
“I had to divert because if I didn’t do that, right now you’d have Iran with a nuclear weapon,” Trump said, reiterating his administration’s stance that Tehran must not acquire nuclear capabilities.
US Military Claims Success In Blocking Iranian Ports
Trump’s remarks came hours after the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that it had successfully blocked traffic to and from Iranian ports and coastal areas during the first 24 hours of the blockade.
According to the military command, the operation aims to support freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints.
The blockade is part of broader military and diplomatic efforts to pressure Iran following the escalation of hostilities earlier this year.
First Round Of Talks In Islamabad Ends Without Breakthrough
The latest developments follow marathon peace talks held in Islamabad over the weekend. The negotiations were described as historic, marking the first direct high-level engagement between US and Iranian officials in years.
However, the talks ended without a formal agreement, leaving both sides searching for ways to revive negotiations and prevent further escalation of the conflict that began on February 28.
Trump Signals Possible Second Round Of Talks
Trump indicated that another round of negotiations could be held soon in Islamabad.
Speaking to The New York Post, he suggested talks might resume within the next two days.
“You should stay there, really, because something could be happening over the next two days, and we’re more inclined to go there,” Trump said, hinting at renewed diplomatic activity.
Pakistan Army Chief Credited For Facilitating Talks
Trump also praised Asim Munir for his role in facilitating negotiations.
“It’s more likely, you know why? Because the field marshal is doing a great job,” Trump said, crediting the Pakistani military leadership for helping maintain dialogue channels between the two sides.
Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary location for talks amid tensions across the region.
Uncertainty Over US Negotiating Team Leadership
Trump did not clarify whether JD Vance would continue to lead the US negotiating team in future rounds.
The earlier delegation included senior figures such as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, both of whom have been actively involved in diplomatic outreach.
Their continued participation remains uncertain as discussions evolve.
Trump Rejects Long-Term Nuclear Moratorium Proposal
When asked about suggestions that a 20-year pause on uranium enrichment might help secure a deal, Trump expressed scepticism.
“I’ve been saying they can’t have nuclear weapons. So I don’t like the 20 years,” he said, adding that he did not want Iran to feel it had secured a victory through negotiations.
“I don’t want them (Iran) to feel like they have a win,” he said.
Conflict That Began In February Remains Unresolved
The conflict between the United States and Iran began on February 28 and has since triggered military escalation, economic pressure, and global concern over shipping routes and energy supplies.
While Trump’s latest remarks suggest optimism about ending hostilities, uncertainty remains over whether diplomatic efforts will deliver a lasting resolution.