US President Donald Trump postponed a 48-hour ultimatum to bomb Iran’s power plants after “good and productive” backchannel communications with Tehran. Messages were sent via mediators like Pakistan’s army chief and PM, with direct contact to a “top” Iranian official possibly Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf.
Negotiation Status
Iran denies direct talks, calling Trump’s retreat a ploy to lower oil prices and prepare attacks, but a senior Foreign Ministry official confirmed reviewing US proposals. Trump set a five-day window for deal, proposing joint US-Iran control of the Strait of Hormuz to reopen oil flow.
Key Proposals
Discussions cover nuclear material handover, halting Iran’s program, and shared strait management—Trump quipped “maybe me and the ayatollah.” Allies warn prolonged war risks disaster; Iran rejects negotiations per Deputy Speaker Ali Nikzad.
Context and Skepticism
Talks involve Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner; Tehran approaches skeptically amid ongoing strikes. A deal could ease global energy crunch, but Iranian state media insists no retreat occurred.
