Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Apr 18: US President Donald Trump has indicated that there has been some progress in talks related to the ongoing Iran conflict, while cautioning that the current ceasefire could end if negotiations fail to produce a lasting agreement.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said there had been “some good news” from the Middle East, particularly involving Iran, though he did not provide further details.

“We had some pretty good news 20 minutes ago, but it seems to be going very well in the Middle East with Iran,” he said, adding that more updates would follow.

Trump made it clear that the continuation of the two-week ceasefire depends on the outcome of the next round of negotiations with Tehran. He suggested that if no agreement is reached by Wednesday, the ceasefire may not be extended.

He also said the US naval blockade in the region would remain in place for now despite Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz, adding that the situation could change depending on developments. Trump warned that failure in talks could lead to renewed military action.

“So you have a blockade, and unfortunately, we have to start dropping bombs again,” he said.

Earlier, addressing a gathering in Phoenix, Arizona, Trump reiterated that US naval operations against Iran would continue until a final agreement is fully reached and implemented.

He also repeated his claim that Iran had agreed to hand over enriched uranium, which the US would retrieve under any peace deal, although Iranian authorities have denied such an agreement.

Trump further said the US played a role in helping broker a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, describing it as a significant diplomatic achievement, while regional responses to the claim remain mixed.