Trump Signals Imminent US-Iran Peace Deal as Israel-Lebanon Truce Begins

US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism regarding a diplomatic breakthrough with Iran, stating that a permanent ceasefire could be finalized "pretty soon." The administration is eyeing this coming weekend for the possible resumption of high-level negotiations to solidify the agreement. This diplomatic push coincides with the start of a 10-day truce between Israel and Lebanon. To facilitate a long-term resolution to the conflict, President Trump intends to invite representatives from both nations to the White House for direct discussions. However, international observers maintain a more cautious outlook. Reports indicate that several European and Gulf Arab leaders believe a comprehensive peace deal between the United States and Iran is more likely to take approximately six months to fully finalize, contrasting with the White House's more immediate timeline. From a market perspective, the prospect of reduced tensions in the Middle East typically lowers the geopolitical risk premium, which may exert downward pressure on crude oil prices. Investors will be closely monitoring the outcome of the weekend talks for confirmation of a lasting peace. In unrelated political developments, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing renewed pressure to resign. This follows the dismissal of top civil servant Olly Robbins after revelations that US envoy Peter Mandelson was granted security clearance despite objections from vetting officials.