US Donald Trump announced late Saturday evening, May 23, on his Truth Social platform that a comprehensive peace agreement between the United States, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and a coalition of regional powers is “largely negotiated” and only awaits final approval. The breakthrough marks a dramatic shift toward a diplomatic solution in the Gulf conflict, after Trump had previously spoken of a “50/50” position regarding a massive military escalation.
The turnaround followed an intense Saturday of diplomacy, during which Trump held coordinated phone calls with the leaders of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, and Israel. According to the Kyivpost, the White House confirmed that the talks cemented the parameters of a strategic memorandum of understanding. Trump held separate conversations with Saudi Arabia’s Mohammed bin Salman, the UAE’s Mohammed bin Zayed, Qatar’s Emir Tamim bin Hamad, and Turkey’s Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Further calls took place with Egypt’s Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Jordan’s King Abdullah II, Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa, and Pakistan’s Asim Munir. The Pakistani government had served as a key back-channel mediator in Islamabad throughout the conflict. After the regional talks, Trump held a separate, focused conversation with Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu to coordinate security objectives — this also went “very well,” according to Trump.
In his statement, Trump said: “An agreement has been largely negotiated, subject to finalization between the United States of America, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the various other countries as listed. The final aspects and details of the agreement are currently being discussed and will be announced shortly. Among many other elements of the agreement, the Strait of Hormuz will be opened.” The announcement ended a day of intense speculation over whether the US would resume its air strikes, suspended jointly with Israel, or pursue a negotiated exit from the multi-billion-dollar conflict.
EuroPulse reported on May 23 about Trump’s previous “50/50” position on the Iran deal and the announced decision by Sunday: Trump on Iran Deal: ’50/50′ – Decision by Sunday.
Source: www.kyivpost.com
