Pat Kenny

On Newstalk.

On Newstalk.

Conversation that counts.

Conversation that counts.

After months of conflict and rising tensions in the Middle East, there are growing signs that a deal between the United States and Iran may be within reach.

Reports suggest an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and address concerns over Iran's nuclear programme could be signed in the coming days, although confusion remains over exactly what's been agreed.

That all said, we've been here before and joining us now with the very latest is Mark Weiss.

He's the Israel correspondent with the Irish Times.

Mark, you're very welcome to the programme.

And look, given Trump's penchant for making big statements on Iran, I think a lot of us were very sceptical.

But we now have statements from the Iranian foreign minister, from the Pakistani prime minister who is involved in these negotiations that a deal is close.

Do you get a sense, Mark, that this time it is different, that we will get a deal over the line in the coming days?

Now, it's interesting because on state media in Iran, there was this 14-point deal that was published that talked about the ceasefire, but also talked about sanctions relief for Iran, the release of frozen assets and economic reconstruction support and reduced US military pressure in the area.

Now, Trump himself said this document bears no relation to

So where do you think the biggest differences appear to be?

Where is the most acute conflict?

So Iran, I know, believe that public opinion in the United States favours de-escalation.

That is clear.

And Trump himself needs this very visible diplomatic success, given how unpopular this war is.

Do you think Iran will capitulate around nuclear verification, around allowing inspections from Washington on this issue?