Trump says talks with Iran progressing, as Israel said to fear premature ceasefire

Key Points:

• US President Donald Trump stated that his administration is negotiating with key Iranian figures, asserting that Iran is eager to make a deal to end the ongoing war, with negotiators including Jared Kushner, Steve Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Vice President JD Vance.
• Despite diplomatic efforts, the Pentagon plans to deploy thousands of troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, though details on timing and location remain undisclosed.
• The Trump administration has presented Iran with 15 conditions to end hostilities, covering nuclear disarmament, regional proxy cessation, and missile program limitations, in exchange for lifting sanctions and advancing Iran’s civilian nuclear program; however, Israeli officials express concern over a rapid, ambiguous framework agreement.
• Talks are reportedly being coordinated with mediators Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey, with a potential peace summit in Islamabad under consideration, though Iran has yet to agree and denies direct negotiations with the US.
• Trump revealed that Iran provided a valuable “present” related to oil and gas in the Strait of Hormuz, interpreting it as a sign of serious negotiation intent, and expressed confidence that the war will end soon despite skepticism from military leaders.