President Trump announced that the United States will postpone planned strikes on Iran's energy infrastructure following what he described as "productive dialogue" with Tehran. This statement has caused confusion regarding the participants and content of the talks.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Trump stated he would delay the strikes for five days, citing a "major understanding" reached with Iran. He mentioned that envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held discussions lasting into Sunday evening with a "high-level" Iranian figure. Both sides were described as eager to "reach a deal," with further telephone talks scheduled for Monday.
Later on Monday in Memphis, Trump remarked, "Iran has one more chance to end its threats against the United States and its allies, and we hope they take it." He added, "This could ultimately become a very good deal for all parties," and reiterated that Iran must never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons.
Trump hinted at the possibility of joint U.S.-Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting the vital waterway could reopen soon if "feasible."
While Iran has denied engaging in negotiations with the U.S., Trump's hints of ongoing talks contributed to a sharp drop in Brent crude prices, which fell from $112 per barrel to around $96 at one point. By 12:44 PM New York time, prices were below $102 as the Trump administration intensified efforts to resume oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump confirmed negotiations with a "high-level" Iranian individual but clarified this person was not Supreme Leader Mujtaba Khamenei.
A Monday report from Axios indicated Witkoff was negotiating with Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. However, Ghalibaf posted on X that no talks with the U.S. were taking place. Iranian state television reported that the U.S. had recently attempted to initiate talks through intermediaries, but Iran had not yet responded.
Trump emphasized that the primary goal remains preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Under a potential agreement, the U.S. would oversee Iran's uranium stockpiles. He added that both nations had reached consensus on this issue, including a prohibition on uranium enrichment for medical or other civilian purposes.
The initial grace period is strictly five days, Trump stated, emphasizing twice that the delay applies specifically to strikes on Iran's primary energy and electrical infrastructure.
"We will see how it goes. If things go well, we can finally resolve this issue," he said. "Otherwise, we will have no choice but to proceed with significant bombardment."
Following Trump's latest comments, Iran announced it had launched a new wave of missiles and drones at Israeli and American targets, dampening expectations of a rapid de-escalation.
Previously, Trump had ordered the deployment of Marine forces to the region, including the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit from Japan, which comprises over 2,000 personnel.
Fred Fleitz, who served on the National Security Council during Trump's first term, suggested the talk of an agreement might be "a feint by the President." However, Fleitz, now Vice President of the America First Policy Institute, said he is "optimistic this could mark the beginning of the end for large-scale military operations."
Over the past two weeks, several Middle Eastern nations, including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, have engaged in behind-the-scenes talks with Iran aiming to curb the conflict and broker a ceasefire acceptable to both Iran and the U.S.-Israel alliance.
Trump had previously demanded that Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz by Monday evening, threatening joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iranian power plants otherwise. Iran vowed to retaliate by targeting energy, information technology, and water facilities across the Middle East.
On Monday, Iran's Defense Committee threatened to mine "the entire Persian Gulf" should its coastline face further attacks.
According to an unnamed Israeli official discussing confidential matters, Israel plans to continue its military operations while avoiding energy assets. Two officials confirmed Israel was aware of Trump's social media post in advance.
When asked if Israel would adhere to any agreement reached with Tehran, Trump responded, "I believe Israel will be very satisfied with the deal we reach," implying prior coordination with Israel.
The Israeli military stated on Monday that it is targeting Iranian infrastructure and has struck central Tehran. Iran continues its retaliatory measures, with Israel, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia reporting drone and missile attacks, though no major damage has been reported. Israel is also preparing to expand ground operations in Lebanon, where it is engaged in a parallel conflict with the Iranian-backed Hezbollah.
The U.S. aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford remains deployed in the region.
