Will Trump 'blink first' and end the war?

This episode of ABC News Daily examines the ongoing war between the U.S. and Iran, now over seven weeks old, and whether a diplomatic off-ramp can be found. Former Trump administration Iran negotiator Nate Swanson offers a candid assessment of the conflict's trajectory, criticizing President Trump's erratic leadership and the lack of clear objectives. Despite massive U.S.-Israeli strikes, Iran has leveraged control of the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic deterrent—something Swanson calls a 'huge boon' that has unexpectedly shifted the balance of power. While Iran has suffered military damage, it sees itself as winning by surviving and asserting influence. Swanson argues both sides have an interest in ending the war, but major obstacles remain: U.S. demands for nuclear concessions versus Iran’s desire to monetize the strait and secure long-term deterrence. He warns against a deal that lets Iran establish a 'toll booth' through the strait, which would be a strategic loss. With peace talks in Pakistan underway and conflicting signals from Trump, Swanson remains skeptical about a deal by Wednesday but sees a framework as possible. The episode underscores the high stakes of diplomacy in a war where both sides may be waiting for the other to blink first.