Trump Expresses Optimism Toward Iran Peace Deal as Tehran Reviews U.S. Proposal

President Donald Trump expressed strong optimism during an Oval Office briefing on May 7, stating that a deal with Iran is "very possible" following productive discussions over the last 24 hours. The negotiations, reportedly led by Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, center on a one-page, 14-point memorandum of understanding. The proposed framework would require Iran to halt uranium enrichment and transfer its existing stockpile to the U.S. in exchange for the lifting of sanctions and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the diplomatic momentum, Trump issued a stark social media warning, stating that bombing would resume at a "much higher level and intensity" should the agreement fall through. Tehran has confirmed it is reviewing the proposal, which was delivered through Pakistani-mediated channels. While Iran has not verified Trump's claims regarding nuclear concessions, Iranian officials indicated they are evaluating the terms for a formal end to the war. Simultaneously, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) suggested that "new procedures" could allow for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz if U.S. threats are withdrawn. The diplomatic push follows a U.S. military action that disabled an Iranian-flagged tanker in the Gulf of Oman earlier on May 7, though Trump has reportedly paused a larger naval mission to provide space for negotiations. Regional stakeholders remain deeply involved as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. officials on Thursday to discuss the potential impact of an agreement. Israel continues to conduct operations in Lebanon and Gaza, including a strike targeting a Hezbollah Radwan Force commander in Beirut. As Iran prepares its formal response to the U.S. proposal, analysts suggest the next 48 hours will be critical in determining whether the region moves toward a durable ceasefire or a significant escalation in hostilities.