US-Iran negotiations, Israel concerns, and possible ceasefire deal dominate Middle East war developments
US President Donald Trump said his administration is making “significant progress” in talks with Iran, even as regional tensions remain high and Israel voices concern over a possible premature ceasefire.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump stated that the United States is “talking to the right people” in Iran, emphasizing that Tehran is eager to reach a deal to end the ongoing conflict.
“We’re in negotiations right now… Iran wants to make a deal so badly,” Trump said.
Key US officials involved in the negotiations include Jared Kushner, Steve Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Vice President JD Vance.
15-Point Proposal Raises Stakes
According to reports, the US has presented 15 conditions to Iran as part of a proposed framework to end the war. These demands reportedly include:
Complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program
No uranium enrichment on Iranian soil
Transfer of enriched uranium to international oversight
Full access for the International Atomic Energy Agency
Ending support for regional proxy groups
Restrictions on missile development
In exchange, Iran would receive:
Full sanctions relief
Support for civilian nuclear energy projects
Removal of automatic “snapback” sanctions mechanisms
However, officials in Israel fear that the US may push for a quick “agreement in principle”, potentially allowing Iran to gain strategic advantages before final terms are enforced.
Ceasefire Plan and Summit Talks
A proposed plan includes a month-long ceasefire, during which negotiations would continue toward a final agreement. Reports suggest a possible peace summit in Islamabad, Pakistan, with mediation from regional players including Egypt and Turkey.
While discussions are said to be advanced, Iran has not yet confirmed participation, and officials indicate that internal challenges may delay decision-making.
Military Build-Up Continues
Despite diplomatic efforts, the Pentagon is reportedly preparing to deploy thousands of troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, signaling that military pressure remains part of US strategy.
Both US and Israeli officials believe that any resolution could still take weeks, with significant gaps remaining between the two sides.
Trump Claims ‘Major Oil and Gas Concession’
Trump also revealed that Iran recently provided what he described as a “very big present” tied to oil and gas, possibly involving the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
“It was a tremendous prize… not nuclear-related, but oil and gas-related,” Trump said.
He suggested the move indicated serious intent from Iran to negotiate, though details remain undisclosed.
Outlook: Progress or Premature Peace?
While Trump remains optimistic about ending the war, skepticism persists among allies, particularly Israel, which fears that rushed diplomacy could undermine long-term security goals.
At present, negotiations appear to be ongoing indirectly through mediators, with no formal agreement yet in place.
Source: The Times of Israel