United States President Donald Trump said there have been good talks with Iran and that its leaders badly want a deal, including agreeing not to have nuclear weapons. Speaking at the White House, Trump said any agreement would ensure that Iran cannot develop a nuclear weapon and expressed optimism that a deal could be reached soon.

Trump claimed Iran’s military capabilities have been largely destroyed, citing heavy losses to its navy, air force, missile systems and leadership. He said that if negotiations fail, the United States would escalate military action, but emphasized that recent discussions over the past two days have been productive.

In a message posted on his social media platform, Trump said that if Iran follows through on what has been discussed, military operations would end and a blockade would be lifted, reopening the Strait of Hormuz to all countries, including Iran. Reports indicate the two sides are close to a preliminary agreement that could include lifting sanctions, releasing frozen Iranian funds and establishing a moratorium on nuclear enrichment, with further steps dependent on a final deal.