POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
US President Donald Trump expressed optimism about ongoing negotiations with Iran while speaking to reporters at the White House before departing for a visit to Nevada and Arizona.
He indicated that the current US-Iran ceasefire, which is due to expire next week, could be extended if necessary, though he suggested it might not be required if progress continues. Trump also hinted at a possible visit to Islamabad, saying he could travel there if an agreement is finalized, noting that such a move has been encouraged by those involved.
The US president further claimed, without presenting supporting evidence, that Iran has agreed to relinquish its stockpile of enriched uranium, which is believed to have been hidden following last year’s US and Israeli strikes. He reiterated his push for a deal that would see Iran abandon its nuclear program.
In a separate development, Trump stated that Israeli and Lebanese leadership have agreed to move forward with a 10-day ceasefire. While he did not specify an exact start date, a US official, speaking anonymously, indicated that the ceasefire is expected to begin on Thursday.
Trump also shared that he had held productive discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. He added that both leaders may soon be invited to the White House for further talks aimed at improving relations between the two countries.