President Trump expresses optimism for Iran peace deal as oil prices fall during three-day strike pause
President Trump expressed optimism on Monday regarding a potential peace deal with Iran, noting that "very friendly negotiations" are currently underway. This follows a three-day pause in strikes between the U.S. and Iran, which has led to a significant drop in oil prices, with Brent crude falling nearly 7% to $85.49. During a press briefing aboard Air Force One, President Trump stated that while he is hopeful for a resolution, the administration announced that it would resume previous strike patterns if negotiations fail. He also dismissed reports of low ammunition, confirming that the U.S. has ample stockpiles and is actively producing more made-in-America weapons. The pause follows nearly two weeks of daily strikes under Operation Epic Fury, which began on February 28. The administration announced that the strikes were intended to degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. While Iran has denied direct negotiations with the U.S., it is currently engaged in constructive talks with Oman to manage maritime traffic in the waterway.