Iran Foreign Ministry Rejects Trump's Claims on Talks Over Paused US Strikes
Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has firmly denied claims by US President Donald Trump that discussions are underway between Washington and Tehran regarding a temporary halt to military strikes on Iranian energy sites. The dismissal came on Monday, as reported by the Mehr News Agency, following Trump's announcement of a five-day pause in such operations.
Iran's Statement on US Allegations
In a statement quoted by Mehr News Agency, the Iranian Foreign Ministry asserted that Trump's remarks were part of an effort to reduce energy prices and gain time for implementing US military strategies. "The US President's statements are within the framework of efforts to reduce energy prices and gain time to implement his military plans," the ministry stated. It further emphasized that Iran is not the instigator of the conflict, urging that all de-escalation requests be directed toward Washington.
Additionally, Fars News quoted an Iranian security official who confirmed there is no direct or indirect contact with the US. The official suggested that Trump retreated from threats to strike Iran's energy infrastructure after Tehran issued a stern warning of retaliation.
Trump's Announcement and Context
Earlier on Monday, Trump posted on Truth Social, announcing that he had instructed the US Department of War to delay military action against Iranian power plants and energy sites for five days. He cited ongoing diplomatic engagements with Tehran, describing the conversations as "very good and productive" and aimed at resolving hostilities in the Middle East.
Trump noted that the pause was based on the "tenor and tone" of the discussions, which he characterized as "in-depth, detailed, and constructive." He added that these talks would continue throughout the week, marking a shift from his previous stance.
Background of Escalating Tensions
The announcement comes amid a conflict that has entered its fourth week, following joint US-Israel military strikes on February 28 that resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran targeted Israeli and US assets in Gulf countries, disrupting waterways and affecting global energy markets and economic stability.
Previously, Trump had issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to "obliterate" Iranian power plants if the demand was not met. In response, Iran's Parliament Speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, warned on X that any attack on Iranian infrastructure would lead to retaliatory strikes on regional energy facilities, potentially keeping oil prices high for an extended period.
Regional Implications and Energy Market Concerns
The ongoing tensions have led Iran to virtually close the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. This move has exacerbated concerns over energy market volatility and international trade disruptions. The Iranian Foreign Ministry's rejection of Trump's claims underscores the deep-seated mistrust between the two nations and highlights the complex dynamics at play in the region.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the situation remains fluid, with both sides maintaining a cautious stance. The international community is closely monitoring developments, given the potential for further escalation and its impact on global security and economic stability.
