Trump hopes for peace but threatens Iran with military action

WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump said that negotiations over the conflict with Iran were moving in a positive direction after both countries paused military attacks for a third straight day. Trump expressed hope for a diplomatic breakthrough while warning that the United States would resume military action if the talks fail.

Trump said there were “very friendly negotiations going on” regarding the conflict. He added that he believed there was “a good chance that something could happen” and suggested the discussions could help bring an end to the recent fighting.

Despite Trump’s comments, Iran denied that direct negotiations with Washington were taking place. Tehran has not confirmed any formal talks with the United States.

Trump said he decided to suspend U.S. strikes against Iran on Friday after countries acting as mediators requested more time for diplomacy. Iran also stopped its military attacks, creating the first extended pause after nearly two weeks of daily exchanges between the two sides.

The recent fighting had effectively ended the ceasefire reached in June. During the conflict, the U.S. military said its operations were aimed at reducing Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important routes for global oil exports.

Financial markets responded positively to the pause in fighting. Oil prices dropped by more than 9% on Monday, falling to as low as $87.59 per barrel as investors hoped diplomatic efforts could reduce tensions and stabilize energy supplies.

Trump also rejected reports claiming the United States was running low on military ammunition after months of operations. He said the country had more than enough weapons and ammunition to meet its military needs.

“We have a lot of ammunition. We have more than we could ever use,” Trump said, adding that he wanted to continue expanding supplies.

The president also said production of Patriot missile defense systems and other military equipment was increasing. He described the Patriots as an important part of the country’s defense capabilities and said more systems were being built.

White House spokesperson Anna Kelly also dismissed concerns about military stockpiles. She said the United States had enough ammunition, weapons and supplies to support all of Trump’s strategic objectives. Kelly added that Operation Epic Fury demonstrated the country’s military strength and confirmed that the administration had instructed defense contractors to continue increasing production of American made weapons.

Although diplomacy has temporarily reduced tensions, uncertainty remains over whether negotiations will succeed. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely as both countries decide their next steps.