Trump Says New Iran Deal Better Than Obama Pact, Coming Soon

WEB DESK: United States President Donald Trump has asserted that a “far better” nuclear deal with Iran is set to be signed “relatively quickly,” even as Tehran officials dismissed the possibility of a second round of negotiations in Islamabad.

The conflicting signals come as a fragile two-week ceasefire approaches its expiry on Wednesday, shadowed by a high-stakes naval confrontation in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Express Tribune.

Diplomatic brinkmanship in Islamabad

President Trump took to Truth Social on Monday to claim that a new agreement which he promises will surpass the 2015 Obama-era accord is in the pipeline to “guarantee peace, security, and safety.”

Despite reports of deep mistrust from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Trump insisted a deal could be signed as early as today in Pakistan.

He confirmed that a high-level delegation, including Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner, was en route to Islamabad, though conflicting reports remain regarding Vice President JD Vance’s participation.

However, the mood in Tehran appeared far less optimistic. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei stated there is currently “no plan” for further talks, accusing Washington of “unrealistic demands” and violating ceasefire provisions.

The Iranian leadership remains adamant that its defensive missile capabilities and domestic nuclear achievements are non-negotiable, with Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh warning that “time should not place Iran under pressure.”

Escalation in the Strait of Hormuz

The diplomatic uncertainty is compounded by a volatile military situation at sea. The US Navy continues its blockade of Iranian ports, a measure Trump vows will remain until a deal is secured.

Tensions spiked following the “forced interception” of an Iranian-flagged cargo ship by US Marines, an act Tehran has labelled “armed piracy.”

Iran’s military has warned of imminent retaliation, noting that their response was only delayed to ensure the safety of crew members and their families on board.

China has expressed “deep concern” over the seizure, urging both parties to maintain the momentum of negotiations to prevent a total collapse of the energy market.

With the war now in its eighth week, the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz has sent global oil prices surging, creating what experts describe as the most severe shock to energy supplies in history.

As Islamabad prepares for potential high-level arrivals with increased security and transport lockdowns, the world watches to see if the “window for peace” will result in a breakthrough or a return to full-scale hostilities.