White House says Iran deal close as U.S. blockade and Senate tensions grow

The White House says it is optimistic a deal to end the conflict with Iran could be within reach, even as pressure on Tehran continues to escalate.

(NBC)- The White House says it is optimistic a deal to end the conflict with Iran could be within reach, even as pressure on Tehran continues to escalate.

“We feel good about the prospects of a deal,” said Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

The comments come as Donald Trump doubles down on his administration’s central demand.

“They cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said.

At the same time, the U.S. military is tightening economic pressure through a blockade of Iranian ports, aimed at cutting off the country’s oil exports. U.S. Central Command says at least ten ships have already been turned away since the operation began.

Iran has responded with its own warning, saying it could block major shipping routes including the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea and the Sea of Oman if the blockade is not lifted—raising concerns about global trade and energy markets.

Back in Washington, lawmakers are clashing over the president’s authority to continue military action.

A Senate vote on a new war powers resolution failed largely along party lines, with Democrats pushing to limit presidential authority.

“Republicans are going to be held accountable… for their unquestioning support for a war… costing Americans billions of dollars,” said Richard Blumenthal.

Republicans, however, expressed hope the conflict will end before legal deadlines come into play.

“My hope is… by the time we reach the end of that 60 days, this conflict will be over,” said Josh Hawley.

Under the War Powers Resolution, the president can conduct military operations without congressional approval for up to 60 days—a deadline that expires at the end of April.