Trump says US negotiating with Iran as more troops head to Middle East

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — President Donald Trump said for a second day that the U.S. was in talks with Iran to end the war as diplomatic efforts picked up Tuesday and Iran issued a newly defiant statement. Airstrikes battered the Islamic Republic while Iranian missiles and drones targeted Israel and sites across the region.

Meanwhile, more American troops prepared to head to the Middle East. At least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division will be sent in the coming days, three people with knowledge of the plans told The Associated Press. Thousands of Marines are already heading to the region.

Iran has denied that any negotiations are taking place, and Trump delayed his self-imposed deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran’s chokehold on that crucial waterway has snarled international shipping, sent fuel prices skyrocketing and threatened the world economy.

Pakistan offered to host diplomatic talks, but Iran vowed to fight “until complete victory.”