Trump eyes Iran deal to reopen Hormuz, extend ceasefire 'next week'

US President Donald Trump said Monday that a comprehensive agreement with Iran to extend the current ceasefire and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz could be finalized "over the next week," following his direct intervention to halt a flare-up between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in Lebanon. In a telephone interview with ABC News, Trump expressed optimism about the negotiations while acknowledging unresolved details remain on the table. "Looking good, looking good," he told the network, adding that he had quickly resolved a diplomatic "glitch" that threatened to derail progress.

Lebanon 'glitch' threatened talks

Trump said the complication stemmed from Iranian anger over recent Israeli military action in Lebanon, prompting immediate calls to both Hezbollah and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "I spoke with Hezbollah, and I said no shooting, and I talked to Bibi and said no shooting, and they both stopped shooting each other," he said, noting that the exchange of fire had threatened to complicate the broader negotiations with Tehran. The intervention came as regional tensions remained high following two months of conflict that has seen the vital oil transit route blocked and thousands killed across the region.

'Better than military victory'

Trump said a potential diplomatic settlement with Iran could prove "even better than a military victory," though he emphasized the difficulty of reaching accord after prolonged hostility between Washington and Tehran. "It's not a simple thing," he stated. "You're talking about a real large country — them — very large country making a deal. Tremendous hostility, really." He added that final approval awaits resolution of specific unspecified terms, saying he has not yet signed off because "I still have to get a few more points."

War erupted on February 28 when the US and Israel launched military strikes against Iranian nuclear and military facilities, prompting Tehran to block the Strait of Hormuz and target American allies across the Gulf. More than 3,300 people have been killed in Iran since hostilities began, with the blockade disrupting global energy shipments and driving prices higher worldwide.