Trump says Iran conflict could end 'fairly soon' after Qatar talks; oil prices slide

President Donald Trump said Monday that the conflict with Iran might end "fairly soon" following his White House meeting with Qatar's prime minister, adding that new U.S. strikes are "quite unlikely." Oil prices slid on the remarks. Trump described Tehran as "talking very politely" with Washington and said momentum is building toward ending the conflict. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted talks "hadn't been very productive" due to Iranian demands, with large gaps remaining on issues like the naval blockade and nuclear work. Iran has sent a proposal through Qatari intermediaries to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within two days in exchange for sanctions relief, though Iranian officials dispute that talks are under way. Brent crude fell 2.7% to $90.14, a level not seen since August.