Trump claims ‘productive’ talks as US pauses Iran energy strikes
US president announces five-day halt to attacks on energy sites as conflict pressures global markets and raises hopes of de-escalation
By Abdullahi Yusuf
US President Donald Trump says his administration has held what he described as “productive” talks with Iran over the past two days, as he announced a temporary halt to military strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure.
In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump said he had ordered a five-day pause on attacks targeting Iran’s power plants and energy facilities, citing the “constructive” nature of ongoing discussions aimed at ending the conflict.
He said the suspension of strikes would remain in place while negotiations continue, adding that the decision is conditional on progress in the talks.
The announcement signals a notable shift in tone from the White House. In recent days, Trump had maintained that US military operations alongside Israel were intensifying and would continue until key objectives were achieved.
Details of the talks remain unclear. Trump did not specify where the discussions were taking place, who was representing Iran, or what terms were being considered.
The development comes as the conflict, which began with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran continues to have far-reaching regional and global consequences.
Energy markets have been particularly affected. Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil shipments, alongside reported strikes on Gulf energy facilities, including Qatar’s Ras Laffan liquefied natural gas complex, have contributed to rising oil prices and market uncertainty.
The war has also drawn increasing international concern, with governments warning of the risks of further escalation and its impact on civilian infrastructure and global energy supplies.
More than 1,300 people are reported to have been killed since the start of the conflict, including senior Iranian figures such as Ali Khamenei, according to reports, though independent verification remains limited.
The US has not indicated whether the pause could be extended beyond the initial five-day period, but officials say further decisions will depend on the outcome of the ongoing talks.
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