WASHINGTON — In an exclusive conversation with The Post on Wednesday morning, President Trump expressed that it remains “too soon” to consider direct peace negotiations between the United States and Iran. This statement comes amidst growing reports suggesting that the two nations are nearing a possible framework to conclude their 67-day conflict.
When questioned about the potential need for The Post to dispatch a reporter back to Pakistan for a fresh round of talks—following reports from Islamabad of a near-finalized peace agreement—Trump responded, “I don’t think so.” He elaborated, “I think we’ll do it—it’s too far. No, it’s too much.”
In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump indicated that the resolution of the conflict hinges on Iran’s adherence to the terms discussed. He stated, “Assuming Iran agrees to give what has been agreed to, which is, perhaps, a big assumption, the already legendary Epic Fury will be at an end, and the highly effective Blockade will allow the Hormuz Strait to be OPEN TO ALL, including Iran. If they don’t agree, the bombing starts, and it will be, sadly, at a much higher level and intensity than it was before.”
Despite the current cautious stance, Trump has previously shown willingness to travel to Pakistan to sign a formal agreement, acknowledging the significant efforts of Pakistan’s defense chief, Asim Munir, in facilitating dialogue between Washington and Tehran.
The interview was cut short as President Trump mentioned he had to meet with “the generals,” concluding the call with The Post.
The president abruptly ended his call with The Post Wednesday morning, saying he had an appointment with “the generals.”
Trump’s reality check comes after Axios reported that White House officials believe they are close to an agreement with Iran on a one-page proposal of principles that could become a final peace deal.
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The outlet reported the document involved “Iran committing to a moratorium on nuclear enrichment, the US agreeing to lift its sanctions and release billions in frozen Iranian funds, and both sides lifting restrictions” on navigation through Strait of Hormuz.
However, The Post understands multiple versions of the proposal are under discussion, and final points to be included had not yet been decided.
“Which one is going to be approved, no one knows,” said a Pakistani source familiar with mediation efforts.
Trump has previously told The Post he did not want to offer Iran a moratorium on uranium enrichment, but rather demand that they never have the opportunity to do so again.
The incremental progress comes after Trump on Tuesday evening announced an abrupt pause on “Project Freedom,” which saw the US military force open the Strait of Hormuz by escorting commercial ships.
The president made the decision at the behest of Pakistan and “other countries” — including Saudi Arabia — who reportedly told Trump the gesture could help facilitate an end to the war.
