Trump Calls Iran Talks ‘Very Good’, Threatens Bombing, as US Disables Iranian Tanker

Context: The United States and Iran have been engaged in indirect talks aimed at ending a conflict that began in February. Central to the dispute are Iran’s nuclear program and its control of the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway through which about 20 percent of the world’s oil passes. Both sides have signaled willingness to negotiate, but deep mistrust remains over verification and sanctions relief.

Key Facts: Trump told reporters that the talks over the past day were “very good” and that a deal is “very possible.” He added that if negotiations collapse, the United States will resume bombing Iran. Separately, U.S. Central Command reported that forces disabled the M/T Hasna, an Iranian‑flagged oil tanker, after it ignored multiple warnings while transiting international waters toward an Iranian port.

What It Means: The dual signals of optimism and threat reflect a strategy of pressing for concessions while maintaining military pressure. Disabling the tanker underscores the ongoing enforcement of the U.S. blockade on Iranian oil exports, which aims to limit Tehran’s revenue. If the talks succeed, the blockade could be eased and sanctions lifted; if they fail, the risk of renewed airstrikes and further maritime confrontations rises.

What to watch next: Observers will monitor whether Iran issues a formal response to the latest U.S. proposal and whether any subsequent tanker incidents trigger escalation or de‑escalation in the Gulf of Oman.