What happened
President Donald Trump stated that Iran has contacted the United States directly and is seeking a deal. Trump expressed hope that the nearly seven-month conflict is approaching its end. He also mentioned that the US has been applying military and economic pressure on Iran to prevent the rebuilding of its military capabilities and to further isolate the regime from the global economy.
The US has been working to cut off Iran's financial revenue streams and procurement networks. The Treasury Department has been collaborating with global financial institutions to shut down these networks. Additionally, the US has been maintaining a blockade against Iran, with CENTCOM spokesman Capt. Tim Hawkins stating that internationally recognized shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz remain free of mines.
Vice President JD Vance reinforced the idea that the conflict is entering a new phase, stating that the first phase of the US campaign is complete and that the conflict will enter a much different phase within months. Trump is expected to meet with Gulf leaders to discuss the next steps in the war and to develop a postwar strategy.
