U.S. President Donald Trump claimed on the 17th (local time) that the United States and Iran will resume cease-fire talks this weekend. He also predicted the talks could be concluded within a day or two.
In a phone interview with the online outlet Axios that day, President Trump said, "Iran wants to meet (with the United States). They want to make a deal," adding, "Talks (for a cease-fire) will probably take place this weekend. We think we will get a deal within a day or two."
In a phone interview with Bloomberg News, President Trump also said, "Most of the key issues (in the negotiations) have been wrapped up. It will move very quickly," and, when asked whether Iran's nuclear program would be halted permanently, answered, "There is no term (for the halt). Indefinitely."
The second round of talks is expected to take place in Pakistan, the mediating country. President Trump told Bloomberg News, "We haven't decided yet who will lead the negotiations," adding, "I could go to Pakistan myself." Earlier, in the first round of talks held on the 11th in Pakistan, Vice President JD Vance led the U.S. delegation.
Trump also told Reuters that the United States is working with Iran to remove naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz.