Trump Warns of New Strikes as U.S.-Iran De-escalation Deal Approaches Finalization

President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that a diplomatic breakthrough with Iran is "very close," with a formal agreement potentially being signed as early as this weekend. The proposed memorandum of understanding, facilitated by Qatari mediation, aims to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and would lead to the lifting of the current U.S. naval blockade. Trump confirmed he has discussed the developments with both the Emir of Qatar and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite the diplomatic progress, the U.S. administration is maintaining a posture of maximum pressure. President Trump warned that the U.S. is prepared to launch fresh military strikes and potentially seize Iranian oil infrastructure if the situation deteriorates. This dual-track approach comes as hostilities remain active on the ground, leaving the finalization of the documents in a fluid state. International concern over the conflict's impact on global trade has intensified. In a statement to the UN Security Council, India expressed strong opposition to attacks on merchant shipping and called for the protection of civilian infrastructure. The intervention highlights the growing pressure from global powers to secure maritime routes, which the U.S. maintains will "officially open" only once the pending deal is finalized.