Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the conflict with Iran is approaching its conclusion, hinting at the possibility of resuming negotiations in Pakistan shortly.
According to Thai News Agency, President Trump, in a recent interview with Fox News, expressed confidence that the U.S. military operation had effectively dismantled most of Iran's nuclear and missile capabilities. He suggested that the war, initiated to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, has achieved its primary objectives. Trump further estimated that the extensive damage inflicted on Iran would require two decades to rebuild.
President Trump also indicated that a new round of peace talks with Iran could occur within the next couple of days in Islamabad, Pakistan. He noted that Iran appeared eager to reach a settlement. Vice President J.D. Vance echoed these sentiments, confirming plans for a second round of talks and underscoring the administration's aim for a comprehensive agreement. The U.S. has proposed normalizing economic relations if Iran agrees to act as a responsible nation. Vance, who led the initial peace talks, is expected to spearhead the upcoming negotiations.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has ceased its blockade of Iranian ports, a measure initiated on April 13. CENTCOM reported that the blockade effectively halted Iran's economic and maritime activities, with no ships breaching the blockade in its first 24 hours. Several vessels, including a Chinese oil tanker, were compelled to return to the Persian Gulf. The blockade involved over a dozen U.S. warships and targeted ships entering and exiting Iranian ports.
In response, Iranian authorities have sought war reparations, citing economic damages of approximately $270 billion from the recent hostilities. Iran has petitioned the United Nations for compensation from the U.S. and five Arab nations it accuses of participating in the attacks: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, and Jordan.
The New York Times, referencing Iranian officials and economists, reported damage estimates aligning closely with Iran's figures, potentially reaching $300 billion. The estimates translate to significant per capita losses for Iran's population of 92 million, reflecting the extensive destruction and economic disruption.
Iranian media also reported that the Central Bank of Iran warned President Masoud Peseskian of a protracted economic recovery, potentially exceeding a decade, due to the recent 40-day conflict against the United States and Israel. Senior Iranian economic officials anticipate a 12-year recovery period for the already fragile Iranian economy.