US President Donald Trump expressed renewed optimism Tuesday, saying a deal with Iran is close. "We're very close to having a very, very good, strong, powerful deal," Trump said, noting a signing could happen in "two or three days."
This comes after Iran and Israel exchanged fire, the biggest blow yet to the strained truce. Trump warned against further bombing, stating, "A lot of people are going to be killed. Who wants to do that? I don't."
Mediators, led by Pakistan, have struggled to bridge gaps. The U.S. demands Iran give up enriched uranium; Iran insists on sanctions relief and frozen asset release. Trump rejects pre-agreement concessions.
Apache down near Hormuz
Meanwhile, a U.S. Army Apache crashed near the Strait of Hormuz. Trump confirmed the two crew members are fine. The cause is unclear. The waterway remains under Iranian pressure.
The war, which began February 28, has shaken the global economy and driven up energy prices. An April ceasefire has failed to produce a permanent end. Israel is also expanding operations in Lebanon against Hezbollah.
Hezbollah war still threatens US-Iran deal
Israel and Iran appeared to back away from further strikes Monday after a brief exchange. Both warn of retaliation if provoked. The renewed hostilities raised fears of full-scale war.
Iran's military halted offensive strikes but threatened severe retaliation for any further aggression. Israeli PM Netanyahu said the current round is over but warned of forceful response if attacked. He confirmed operations continue in Lebanon.
Israel issued an evacuation warning for Tyre, including the Christian quarter, prompting the Lebanese army to deploy there to prevent Israeli strikes and demonstrate no Hezbollah presence amidst growing tensions.