Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Monday the postponement of planned military strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure for five days, emphasizing both Washington and Tehran's interest in negotiating a resolution to their ongoing conflict.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Trump revealed in a social media post that the United States and Iran engaged in "productive" talks over the weekend, claiming they reached "major points of agreement." However, Tehran refuted any communication between the two nations. Trump's comments followed his previous warning that the U.S. military would "obliterate" Iran's power plants if the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil passage, was not reopened within 48 hours.
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump expressed satisfaction over the recent discussions, indicating a positive shift towards resolving hostilities in the Middle East. He instructed the Department of War to delay military actions against Iran's power plants, contingent on the ongoing success of these discussions. This move comes amid concerns over the potential impact of the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran on global oil prices and inflation, factors crucial to American public opinion ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the speaker of Iran's parliament, dismissed the U.S. claims of negotiations, criticizing them as manipulative tactics. Despite the denial, Trump maintained that constructive conversations had taken place, involving key figures like Steve Witkoff, the special envoy to the Middle East, and Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law.
Trump reiterated the U.S. objectives, emphasizing the prevention of Iran developing nuclear weapons and seeking peace in the Middle East. The U.S. military, in collaboration with Israel, initiated "Operation Epic Fury" on February 28, targeting Iran's missile capabilities and naval forces, which resulted in the death of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In retaliation, Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz and launched counterattacks, escalating tensions and contributing to rising oil prices. Despite the hostilities, Trump's recent statements signal a potential diplomatic pathway amid the ongoing military and geopolitical strife.