President Donald Trump said the United States remains in contact with Iran, but Tehran is not yet prepared to reach an agreement. During remarks at the White House, he said Iranian officials appeared more serious about negotiations while cautioning that no deal was imminent. CNN reported the comment s as the conflict continued to create security concerns across the Middle East. The United States has maintained its military presence in the region while diplomatic discussions move forward. Trump said he was not rushing to approve a larger military operation, though he left open the possibility of additional action. Regional governments remain alert to further missile and drone attacks as the situation develops. The conflict has caused military and civilian casualties, disrupted commercial shipping and increased pressure on global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz remains a major concern because of its importance to international oil and gas supplies. For now, talks and military preparations are continuing at the same time. Neither Washington nor Tehran has announced a confirmed agreement or a clear timetable for ending the conflict. ...read more read less