Five-day halt tied to ongoing discussions
President Donald Trump announced Monday that planned U.S. strikes on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure would be suspended for five days following what he described as “very good” and “productive” conversations with leaders in Tehran.
In a Truth Social post written in all caps, Trump said the United States and Iran had engaged in discussions over the past two days regarding what he called a “complete and total resolution” of hostilities in the Middle East. He said that based on the “tenor and tone” of those talks, he had instructed the Department of War to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian energy targets for a five-day period, contingent on continued diplomatic progress.
Iran disputes talks
Iranian state media rejected the president’s characterization, describing the move as Trump “backing down” and denying that direct negotiations were taking place between the two countries.
The conflicting accounts added to uncertainty in global markets, which have been reacting sharply to developments in the region.
Strait of Hormuz tensions
The announcement comes amid ongoing volatility in energy markets following Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route for oil and liquefied natural gas. Tehran shut the waterway after initial U.S. and Israeli strikes last month.
Trump has sought to build a coalition of U.S. allies to help patrol and secure the strait, but so far partner nations have shown reluctance to formally join such an effort.
Escalation and market reaction
Just days before Monday’s pause, Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum warning that if Iran did not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz without threat, the United States would “hit and obliterate” Iranian power plants, starting with the largest facilities.
Iran responded with its own warning, saying it would target U.S. energy and infrastructure assets in Gulf states if American strikes proceeded.
Oil prices surged following Tehran’s threat. Brent crude rose to $114.09 per barrel, while U.S. crude climbed above $100. Energy markets have remained highly sensitive to statements from both governments.
Mixed signals on military objectives
In recent days, Trump has offered varying messages about the trajectory of U.S. operations in Iran. On Friday, he said the United States was “getting very close” to achieving its objectives and suggested the possibility of “winding down” military efforts in the region.
Whether the current five-day pause marks a genuine step toward de-escalation or a temporary tactical shift remains uncertain, as both diplomatic engagement and military pressure continue to shape the standoff.
