Trump halts strikes on Iranian power, energy plants

International

US President Donald Trump said negotiations with Iran are “going very well” as tensions remain high ahead of a key deadline tied to the partial closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

According to a report by Agence France-Presse, Trump made the remarks after announcing a five-day pause on planned US strikes targeting Iran’s power plants and energy infrastructure.

The pause follows what Trump described as “very good and productive conversations” over the past two days, raising hopes for a possible easing of hostilities in the Middle East. He said discussions would continue throughout the week and that further military action would depend on the outcome of ongoing talks.

However, Iranian officials denied the claim, saying no negotiations with Washington are taking place. State media quoted the foreign ministry as saying Trump’s remarks were aimed at lowering global energy prices.

The development came just hours before the expiration of a US ultimatum for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passageway through which about one fifth of the world’s oil supply passes.

Tehran had partially closed the strait in response to US and Israeli attacks launched in late February.

Rising oil prices have added pressure on Trump domestically, with fuel costs becoming a growing concern for American consumers.

Despite conflicting statements, markets briefly reacted positively, with oil prices dipping following news of potential diplomatic progress.(Georgia Olivar, USJ-R Comm Intern)