Retired U.S. Army General Jack Keane offered a positive assessment of President Donald Trump’s ability to negotiate with Iran. During an interview, Keane stated, “I know this, President Trump is NOT going to make a bad deal.” His confidence comes amid a newly brokered ceasefire agreement that represents a significant diplomatic achievement.
This ceasefire, finalized on a recent Wednesday, brings a temporary pause to the hostilities that have troubled the region. It follows Iran’s closure of the crucial Strait of Hormuz on February 28, an act that severely impacted global oil prices. The strait is vital, controlling nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply. With tensions easing, the reopening of this maritime corridor has sent oil prices tumbling—Brent crude dropped by 14%, while West Texas Intermediate fell by 17%. Unfortunately, gas prices in the U.S. still hover around $4.20 a gallon, reflecting the lingering economic strain on consumers.
Keane highlighted the intricacies involved in negotiating with Iran. “He knows these guys, he’s negotiated with them more than any previous president has,” he remarked. His assessment points to Trump’s extensive experience with Iranian representatives, who he described as often “full of BS” and skilled in deception. Keane’s comments raise awareness about the need for vigilance in negotiations.
The ceasefire has broader implications beyond mere diplomacy. While the United States sees it as a triumph and hopes to foster economic ties with Iran, the latter now exerts increased control over navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has resumed its role of regulating vessel passage through the strait, potentially amplifying Iran’s influence in the region.
Dmitry Medvedev, the deputy chair of Russia’s Security Council, characterized Iran’s control over the strait as akin to possessing a “nuclear weapon.” This comment underscores the strait’s critical role in geopolitical strategy. In the meantime, President Trump expressed a positive outlook for cooperation with Iran, stating, “We will be helping with the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz,” and emphasized that “lots of positive action” and “big money will be made.”
Notably, this diplomatic maneuvering followed Trump’s authorization of a daring military operation in Iran, which successfully saved a U.S. airman and demonstrated a dual approach to conflict management that combines military might with diplomatic efforts.
Conversations are also ongoing concerning a ten-point peace proposal from Iran, which Trump suggested could form a “workable basis” for deeper negotiations. While this proposal sparks hope, some U.S. officials remain wary. Sen. Lindsey Graham has raised alarms about any plans that might lead to Iran maintaining the ability to enrich uranium in the future, highlighting the risks, “Allowing this regime to enrich in the future would be an affront to all those murdered … and inconsistent with denying Iran a pathway toward a bomb.”
Trump’s administration is attempting to navigate a complex diplomatic landscape, striving for de-escalation while protecting American interests. The situation remains dynamic, with all parties cautiously probing options for lasting peace. As Keane reassured, “The backstop we have here is the president himself. He’s not going to take a bad deal.”
The ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz signal a tentative reprieve in a historically volatile region. The future will depend on the negotiation skills of both sides, their ability to navigate the intricate geopolitical landscape, and the responses from the Western world to Iran’s assertions of power.
"*" indicates required fields
