HARIANEXPRESS – United States President Donald Trump on Thursday (September 17, 2026) said that the armed conflict with Iran may be approaching its end, amid reports of increasing diplomatic efforts in the Middle East.
Trump made the statement to reporters and said that his administration had engaged in direct communication with Tehran, although details regarding the form and outcome of the discussions have not been disclosed.
“hopefully toward the end”
Trump made the remark when asked about developments in the war involving the United States and Iran. He also said that he had spoken directly with Iranian representatives.
Trump Claims Diplomatic Progress
In the latest developments surrounding the conflict, Trump expressed optimism that the war could soon come to an end. However, the Iranian government has not issued an official statement confirming any agreement or direct talks with Washington.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials said Tehran still requires concrete steps from the United States to rebuild trust. Iran’s National Security Council official Mohsen Rezaei stated that his country does not have a high level of trust in Washington and requested practical actions before further discussions.
Conflict Spreads Across the Middle East
The developments surrounding the Iran war are also linked to rising tensions in several parts of the Middle East. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called for de-escalation and encouraged a diplomatic solution.
Tensions have also increased in Yemen, where the Houthi movement and Saudi-backed forces have again engaged in fighting. Reports stated that both sides claimed attacks in several areas, including around Marib, Taiz, and Hodeidah.
The United States through the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) also stated that it continues to monitor developments in Yemen and provide support to American partners in the region.
Strait of Hormuz Becomes International Concern
Beyond military tensions, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz has become a major international concern because the waterway is one of the world’s key energy trade routes.
Ship-tracking data showed a decline in the number of commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz compared with previous averages. On Wednesday (September 16, 2026), only three vessels were recorded passing through the area based on initial tracking data.
Disruptions to the shipping route could affect global energy distribution because the Gulf region is one of the world’s major centers for oil and gas production.
China Urges Iran and US to Resume Dialogue
In international diplomatic developments, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on Iran and the United States to exercise restraint and reopen dialogue to reduce tensions.
China also urged both sides to maintain the security of the Strait of Hormuz to protect international energy trade stability.
No Certainty Yet on End of Conflict
Although Trump stated that the war was nearing its end, developments on the ground still showed ongoing military activities and tensions among the parties involved.
The governments of the United States and Iran have not announced any official agreement regarding a ceasefire or the termination of the conflict. Future developments will depend on diplomatic efforts and actions taken by each side.
