President Donald Trump said there are very friendly negotiations going on about the conflict with Iran, after the warring sides did not exchange strikes for a third straight day.
He expressed optimism for an end to the war on Monday, telling reporters aboard Air Force One that a good chance could arise.
However, he warned Washington would return to its pre‑pause tactics if negotiations fail.
Tehran has denied that any direct negotiations are taking place.
Trump explained that he paused U.S. strikes on Friday because mediators asked him to give talks another chance.
Iran has also halted its attacks.
The pause follows nearly two weeks of daily U.S. strikes and counter‑attacks, effectively unraveling a ceasefire struck in June.
The U.S. military said its strikes aim to degrade Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for oil.
Oil prices fell over 9% to $87.59 per barrel on Monday, reflecting hopes of de‑escalation.
Trump dismissed reports that U.S. ammunition stockpiles were running low after five months of fighting, claiming they remain plentiful.
He emphasized the U.S. has more than enough munitions for current goals and beyond, citing the production of Patriot anti‑ballistic missiles.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly highlighted that the U.S. military has ample supply to meet all presidential strategic goals, and Operation Epic Fury shows the impact of confronting the United States.
The U.S. and Israel launched strikes against Iran on 28 February. Tehran retaliated by firing missiles and drones across the Gulf against U.S. bases and other assets, and on targets in Israel.
In June, Iran and the U.S. signed a memorandum to halt military operations, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and aim to end the war within 60 days.
After Iranian forces attacked tankers on 13 July, Washington resumed air strikes and reinstated its naval blockade of Iranian ports.
Tehran succeeded in damaging U.S. facilities and bases across the Middle East, killing four American soldiers. The U.S. strikes have since caused dozens of casualties, according to Iran’s health ministry.
The image above shows President Trump speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, with a caption stating he believes 'good talks' are underway.
