Trump Says Iran War Nearing End

US President Donald Trump announced that his administration is maintaining “direct” contact with Tehran, expressing optimism about easing ongoing military tensions. “Hopefully we are nearing the end of the war,” Trump told reporters, noting that Iran “is very much wanting to make a deal.” Speaking upon his arrival in North Carolina, he also shifted his focus to sharply criticize the Federal Reserve’s recent interest rate hikes. Calling the Fed’s actions “hostile” and “very political,” Trump claimed the rate increases were deliberately targeted against his administration.