Trump Expresses Optimism as U.S.-Iran Truce Talks Approach Second Round

President Trump has expressed high optimism regarding the resolution of the U.S.-Iran conflict, stating in a recent television interview that the war is 'very close to being over.' This follows signals from Tehran indicating a willingness to ease maritime pressure in the Strait of Hormuz to facilitate de-escalation. Preparations are reportedly underway for a second round of truce talks intended to take place before the current two-week ceasefire expires. Despite the optimistic rhetoric from the White House, the U.S. military has confirmed that its blockade of Iranian ports remains fully operational. Tehran has responded to the continued enforcement with threats of retaliation, highlighting a lingering friction between military positioning and diplomatic efforts. Simultaneously, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has convened the first day of Israel-Lebanon negotiations in Washington, D.C., as the administration manages broader regional tensions. The prospect of a diplomatic resolution has triggered significant movement in global markets. The U.S. dollar index fell for its seventh consecutive session, erasing gains made since the conflict's start as safe-haven demand diminished. Oil prices also saw a sharp decline, easing immediate inflation concerns and leading analysts to suggest that the Federal Reserve may maintain current interest rates through 2026.