Trump Says U.S.-Iran Ceasefire Agreement Could Be Reached Within a Week
President Donald Trump said Monday that the United States and Iran could reach an agreement within the next week to extend a ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, expressing optimism that negotiations remain on track despite recent diplomatic challenges.
Speaking by phone with ABC News, Trump acknowledged that talks experienced a brief setback earlier in the day after Iran reportedly objected to Israeli military actions involving Lebanon. However, he said the issue was quickly addressed through direct communication with regional leaders.
According to Trump, he spoke with representatives connected to Hezbollah and urged an immediate halt to hostilities. He also said he contacted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whom he referred to as “Bibi,” encouraging restraint. Trump claimed both sides subsequently ceased exchanging fire, helping prevent a wider escalation.
Earlier Monday, Iran announced that communications with the United States had been suspended, raising concerns about the future of negotiations. Later, however, Trump sought to reassure observers by stating on social media that discussions were continuing at a “rapid pace.”
Trump also said he personally helped avert a broader conflict by receiving assurances from Netanyahu that Israeli forces would not enter Beirut. While emphasizing that negotiations are progressing, he acknowledged that several outstanding issues must still be resolved before a final agreement can be reached.
When asked about the timeline for a memorandum of understanding to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said he believes an agreement could be completed within the next week, although additional negotiations remain necessary.
Trump argued that a diplomatic breakthrough with Iran could ultimately prove more valuable than a military victory. He noted that reopening the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes—could strengthen regional stability, support global energy markets, and improve international commerce.
Despite his optimism, Trump cautioned that reaching a lasting agreement will not be easy, citing decades of tension and mistrust between Washington and Tehran.
