President Donald Trump said Thursday the United States is ‘very close’ to a deal with Iran, speaking to reporters outside the White House before departing on Marine One.
The comments come as the April 8 ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran approaches its April 22 expiration. Both sides are reportedly considering a two-week extension to allow more time for negotiations.
Pakistani officials are shuttling between Iran and other regional capitals to orchestrate a new round of U.S.-Iran talks. Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif visited Qatar Thursday and will travel to Turkey before returning Saturday.
The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to most commercial shipping traffic due to Iran's restrictions and the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports. Approximately 230 loaded oil tankers are waiting inside the Gulf.