WASHINGTON: The White House has stated that U.S. President Donald Trump is aiming to secure a deal with Iran before an April 6 deadline, amid ongoing tensions and conflict in the region.
Speaking during a press briefing, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said that “positive discussions” are taking place regarding the Iran situation, adding that Iran has agreed to some of the proposals put forward by the United States.
She noted that while public statements may differ from private communications, the messages conveyed by Iran through indirect channels are being carefully evaluated.
Leavitt further indicated that Trump may request financial support from Arab countries to help cover the costs associated with the conflict. She said Gulf nations could potentially contribute, although no final decision has yet been made.
The spokesperson also emphasized that the United States does not support Iran’s reported intention to impose toll taxes on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. She added that around 20 oil tankers are expected to pass through the strategic waterway in the coming days.
In a separate remark, the White House confirmed that the U.S. had allowed a Russian oil tanker to travel to Cuba on humanitarian grounds, stressing that there has been no change in U.S. policy toward Cuba.
Meanwhile, Iran has denied engaging in direct negotiations with the United States. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei stated that no face-to-face talks have taken place, and that any messages have been exchanged through intermediaries.
