US President Donald Trump said on April 16 (US time) that the US and Iran could meet soon, as diplomatic efforts are progressing.
Speaking to reporters, Mr. Trump expressed his belief that an agreement to end the conflict with Iran could be reached soon. He said the next meeting between the two sides could take place this weekend, while leaving open the possibility of extending the ceasefire for another 2 weeks, although he said Tehran is likely to push for an agreement, so this may not be necessary.
Mr. Trump said that if an agreement is reached and the signing ceremony takes place in Islamabad, he could go to Pakistan to attend. Speaking later in Las Vegas, he continued to emphasize that the war "should end soon".
A mediating source revealed that behind-the-scenes negotiations have made significant progress, which could lead to the signing of a memorandum of understanding before reaching a comprehensive agreement within 60 days.
The mediation efforts involved Field Marshal Asim Munir - Commander of the Pakistani Army, who is said to have made breakthroughs on some key issues. However, the biggest disagreement still revolves around Iran's nuclear program.
The US proposed suspending nuclear activity for 20 years, while Tehran offered a shorter deadline, and demanded the lifting of sanctions. Two sources from Iran said that signs of compromise have emerged regarding high-level enriched uranium stockpiles.
The negotiation context takes place when the conflict has had a significant impact on the global economy. The war broke out on February 28th, causing oil prices to fluctuate sharply, forcing the International Monetary Fund to lower its growth outlook and warn of the risk of recession if the situation prolongs.
Meanwhile, oil prices tend to decrease as expectations of reaching an agreement increase, while the stock market gradually recovers.
Regarding the region, the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah forces in Lebanon has taken effect, but is still fragile as allegations of violations emerge. Mr. Trump said he had spoken with Israeli and Lebanese leaders, and is expected to invite the two sides to the White House to hold "meaningful" discussions.
On Iran's side, it affirmed that any peace agreement should include the situation in Lebanon.
