Trump expects major Middle East deal within ‘two or three days’

United States President Donald Trump said negotiations for a Middle East peace agreement were entering their final stage, expressing confidence that a breakthrough could come within days. Speaking to reporters after returning from a basketball event, he said a “very good deal” was close to being finalised and suggested progress could be achieved within “two or three days.” Trump said the proposed agreement would be stronger and more effective than continued military action, warning that further bombing campaigns could devastate the region and disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz for months. He stated that while the US could intensify strikes if necessary, he preferred a diplomatic resolution to avoid more casualties. He said the economic pressure and blockades had proven more impactful than direct military attacks. Trump said the targeted country’s economy was under severe strain, which he believed was pushing leaders toward an agreement. Separately, Trump dismissed suggestions that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had ignored him by launching strikes on Iran in response to missile attacks on Israel. He claimed the missiles were already in transit when he spoke with Netanyahu and insisted the Israeli leader follows his directives. Trump has previously been reported to have cautioned Netanyahu against carrying out attacks on sites in Lebanon, including Beirut, although those operations later went ahead. Pezeshkian says Iran committed to diplomacy and national defence