Trump Sees Positive Momentum Towards Iran Conflict Resolution, Reaffirms Blockades

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Monday evening that there is "positive momentum" towards ending the war with Iran, following discussions with Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. Trump emphasized Washington's commitment to maintaining the naval blockade and the new military operation targeting Iran's land routes, while also stating the U.S. is prepared to resume military operations if regional developments change, though he deemed this unlikely at present. In a post on his "Truth Social" platform, Trump described his conversation with Al Thani as "excellent," covering numerous issues related to Iran. He noted that Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and other nations prefer to maintain the status quo, which includes the "greatest naval blockade in history" and the "new Iron Gate" operation, thus enforcing a land and sea blockade. Trump's remarks signal continued U.S. pressure on Iran alongside diplomatic efforts. The U.S. last week announced "Operation Iron Gate" to disrupt Iran's land trade routes, in addition to the existing naval blockade of its ports. Trump reiterated that "everyone agreed that Iran cannot possess a nuclear weapon, and this is non-negotiable," referring to the countries he mentioned. He also warned of potential military action, stating the U.S. is "fully militarily prepared and ready to act if any change occurs in the developments in the Middle East," but added, "at this stage, that seems highly unlikely." The U.S. President asserted that "Israel and the entire Middle East are protected from Iranian danger and threats," and expressed optimism about "positive momentum towards ending this conflict," vowing to protect U.S. interests. He concluded that "when this military confrontation ends, the American people and the world will be safer and more secure." These statements follow Trump's Sunday comments to CNN, where he largely dismissed the likelihood of renewed fighting but stated he would act if necessary, highlighting that "we have hit them very hard." He stressed that the decision hinges on Tehran's willingness to sign an agreement acceptable to Washington. Conversely, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced Sunday that mediation efforts to end the war have stalled due to the U.S. midterm election results, which saw Republicans lose control of Congress. He suggested the "shock of the U.S. election results" requires time before mediation can resume. Regional mediation efforts, involving Qatar and Pakistan, continue to end the war, which began with a U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran in late February. Despite a significant reduction in military operations, Tehran continues to impose restrictions on navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, while the U.S. Navy maintains its blockade of Iranian ports amid disagreements over the terms of an agreement and mechanisms for ending the confrontation.