Trump Claims U.S.-Iran Deal Near as Middle East Conflict Reaches 100-Day Mark

President Donald Trump has announced that the United States is 'very close' to signing a significant deal with Iran, suggesting an agreement could be finalized within the next 48 to 72 hours. According to the President, the deal would include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz as part of a broader ceasefire arrangement. Trump emphasized that no major 'sticking points' remain, though he issued a stern warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that Israel could find itself 'fighting alone' if it chooses to resume military hostilities. The diplomatic push comes as the regional conflict hits its 100th day, characterized by a fragile pause in direct fire between Israel and Iran. Despite the current halt in strikes, analysts from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) describe the situation as a near-resumption of full-scale war. Central to the ongoing negotiations is Iran's demand for the unfreezing of assets, totaling roughly $24 billion, in exchange for renewed limits on its nuclear program. However, the nuclear file remains largely unresolved, with any immediate memorandum likely serving only as a framework for future discussions. Maritime security continues to be a primary concern as the Houthis maintain their blockade of Israeli-affiliated vessels in the Red Sea. While Trump has linked the potential deal to the restoration of traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, the waterway has already suffered significant disruption. High insurance premiums and reduced traffic persist as shippers remain cautious of the volatile security environment. Military experts warn that despite the current diplomatic momentum, the underlying proxy pressures and unresolved maritime risks make any potential pause highly unstable.