Donald Trump ‘optimistic’ about Iran peace deal

US President Donald Trump has said that a peace agreement with Iran now appears closer and that he is “very optimistic” about its progress, adding that a US delegation will soon travel to Pakistan for important talks.

In an interview with an American broadcaster, Trump stated that Iranian leadership shows more flexibility in meetings than in the media and is willing to agree on key points necessary for a deal. He warned that if an agreement is not reached, the situation could become very painful for Iran.

Despite a temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran, tensions remain in the region, with Israel continuing strikes in southern Lebanon where the Iran-backed group Hezbollah is active.

According to sources, Trump asked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to pull back on the strikes to help ensure the success of the upcoming negotiations.