Tensions in the Middle East appeared to ease slightly on Thursday after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that a possible peace agreement with Iran could be reached within a week.

According to U.S. officials, Trump ordered a temporary halt to a military operation known as “Project Freedom” in the Strait of Hormuz shortly after Washington delivered a new draft peace proposal to Tehran. The pause reportedly lasted less than 24 hours and was linked to what Trump described as “positive progress” in diplomatic negotiations.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important waterways, carrying a major portion of global oil shipments. Any escalation in the region has immediate effects on international energy markets and global security.

U.S. Forces Intercept Iranian Threats

The U.S. Central Command confirmed that American military forces intercepted several Iranian cruise missiles and drones earlier this week. The attacks allegedly targeted commercial vessels operating near the Gulf region.

Officials stated that no U.S.-flagged ships were damaged during the incident. However, the Pentagon maintained that the American naval blockade on Iranian ports remains active as part of broader pressure against Tehran.

Chinese Oil Tanker Attacked

In a major development, a Chinese-owned oil tanker was attacked near the Strait of Hormuz — the first such incident involving a Chinese vessel since the Iran conflict intensified.

Chinese media reported that the tanker carried markings reading “CHINA OWNER & CREW.” The attack reportedly caused a fire on the ship’s deck, though the condition of the crew remains unclear.

China is one of the largest buyers of Iranian oil, making the incident highly sensitive diplomatically and economically. Analysts warn that attacks on Chinese commercial shipping could draw Beijing more deeply into regional tensions.

Iran Leadership Remarks

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman stated that Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei maintains full oversight over all national matters. The statement appears aimed at reassuring allies and signaling stability within Iran’s leadership structure amid the crisis.

Trump and EU United Against Iranian Nuclear Weapons

Trump also revealed details of a phone conversation with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Posting on Truth Social, Trump said the United States and the European Union are “completely united” in preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.

He criticized the Iranian regime, saying:

“A regime that kills its own people cannot control a bomb that can kill millions.”

Trump additionally warned the EU regarding trade negotiations, claiming Europe had promised to reduce tariffs to zero under a historic trade agreement discussed in Turnberry, Scotland. He stated the EU has until America’s 250th anniversary to fulfill the agreement or face higher U.S. tariffs.

Rubio to Meet Pope Leo

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to meet Pope Leo XIV on Thursday. The meeting comes amid reported tension between the Trump administration and the Vatican over global diplomacy and humanitarian concerns related to the Middle East conflict.