Ultimatums, diplomacy and a trip to Graceland as Trump eyes a deal with Iran
America may be a nation at war, but the president's activities have been a mix of diplomacy and diversions - with the occasional swing toward the surreal.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"They want very much to make a deal."
— Donald Trump , Politician
"Iran has one more opportunity to end its threats to America and our allies."
— Donald Trump , Politician
"we’ll just keep bombing our little hearts out."
— Donald Trump , Politician
"escape the quagmire"
— Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf , Politician
Key People
Benjamin Netanyahu is the prime minister of Israel.
Former president of the United States known for his aggressive economic policies.
Elvis Presley was a legendary American singer and cultural icon known as the 'King of Rock and Roll.'
Karoline Leavitt is the White House press secretary.
Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf is an Iranian politician and the head of Iran's parliamentary speaker.
Vance is the US vice-president who publicly addressed the issue surrounding Henry Nowak's death.
Tags
All Coverage
America may be a nation at war, but the president's activities have been a mix of diplomacy and diversions - with the occasional swing toward the surreal.
The article investigates President Trump's claim of progress in negotiations with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz crisis, contrasting it with Tehran's firm denials and highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the talks.
In the wake of a three-week war with Iran, the Trump administration has started preliminary strategic planning for potential peace talks, signaling interest in 'winding down' the conflict.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Trump threatens to bomb US ally Oman if it 'gets in the way' over Iran deal
Trump's threat on Oman, which has been holding its own talks with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, comes as a 60-day window for peace negotiations expires.
August 17, 2026 at 04:26 PMTrump threatens 'tremendous economic consequences' on any country helping Iran
It comes after a 60-day ceasefire expired on Monday, with no sign of a diplomatic or military off-ramp to the conflict.
August 20, 2026 at 12:52 AMTrump says Iran should surrender, threatens to bomb Oman - Reuters
Trump says Iran should surrender, threatens to bomb Oman Reuters
August 17, 2026 at 02:46 PMTrump says US to scale back military drills with South Korea after it stayed out of Iran war
Trump cites his "very good relationship" with North Korea's leader in deciding to downsize the exercises.
August 17, 2026 at 12:06 AMMembers of Trump's cabinet remained on decoy plane, after president's quiet exit
Trump boarded a different plane in Turkey during a Nato summit for security reasons involving Iran.
August 12, 2026 at 04:34 PMTrump's envoys meet mediators, Israel strikes Gaza - Reuters
Trump's envoys meet mediators, Israel strikes Gaza Reuters
August 16, 2026 at 05:58 PM