United States President Donald Trump said on Friday that a peace agreement between the United States and Iran could be signed in Europe this weekend, raising hopes for an end to months of conflict that has disrupted global trade and heightened tensions across the Middle East.

Trump's remarks came after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that an agreement between the two sides “has never been closer,” signaling growing optimism in both Washington and Tehran.

Despite the positive statements, significant differences remain over the terms of any potential deal. While both governments have indicated that negotiations are progressing, each side has presented a different interpretation of what a final agreement would include.

According to reports, the proposed deal could involve economic relief and sanctions-related concessions for Iran in exchange for the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Iran has kept the waterway closed since the outbreak of war involving the United States and Israel on February 28, a move that has disrupted international shipping and contributed to uncertainty in global energy markets.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most important maritime routes, with a significant portion of global oil and gas shipments passing through it. Continued disruptions have placed pressure on the global economy and increased concerns among major energy-importing nations.

Meanwhile, military tensions remain high. Despite diplomatic progress, fighting continued in the region overnight. The United States military reported that it had shot down several Iranian drones, underscoring the fragile security situation and the challenges facing negotiators.