[Anchor]

The negotiations between the United States and Iran can be seen as a turning point in the current situation.

However, regarding President Trump's intentions, it is uncertain whether he truly wants an end to hostilities or is merely stalling for time.

Kim Kyung-soo reports from Washington.

[Report]

The war that Trump himself said would end in 4 to 5 weeks has now entered its fourth week.

The ultimatum to devastate Iranian power plants has been replaced with the announcement of productive dialogue just 12 hours before the deadline.

The prevailing analysis suggests that for Trump, a significant escalation leading to civilian casualties was a burdensome decision.

U.S. domestic sentiment towards the war has worsened due to soaring oil prices, and allied nations are refusing requests for troop deployments, creating a need for an exit strategy.

[Donald Trump/President of the United States: "They've agreed they will not have a nuclear weapon, you know, etc., etc., but we'll see. You have to get it done. But I would say there is a very good chance."]

There are still doubts that the United States, which had previously launched attacks during negotiations with Iran, could initiate surprise attacks during a five-day suspension of strikes.

The U.S. Marine Corps is moving from Japan to the Middle East, and the possibility of deploying paratroopers to Kharg Island, which is vital to the Iranian economy, is also being discussed.

[Tehran Resident: "This is just a game that Trump is playing. People call him a gambler, which means he is trying to manipulate public opinion and deceive people."]

Whether ground troops will be deployed, leading to a larger war, or whether, as Trump claims, the biggest deal in his life will be finalized, the next five days are expected to be a turning point in this war.

This is Kim Kyung-soo reporting for KBS News from Washington.