The two countries have been at war since February 28, 2026. The U.S. had warned Iran that if it blocked the Strait of Hormuz through which about 20% of the world’s oil exports pass, it would strike Iran’s energy facilities.
Iran responded by warning that if its energy infrastructure were attacked, it would retaliate by targeting facilities in allied Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, and would completely shut down the Strait of Hormuz.
On March 23, Trump stated that there had been a week of “serious and constructive” discussions between the U.S. and Iran, and based on this, he ordered the Defense Department to pause attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure for five days.
He said “I have instructed the Department of Defense to suspend military strikes on power plants and energy infrastructure for five days, as ongoing meetings and talks are progressing well.”
Iran’s embassy in Lebanon said Trump made this decision after being warned that the Strait of Hormuz could be completely closed until the damage in Tehran is repaired.
However, Iran’s state news agency Fars News Agency reported that no direct or indirect talks have taken place between the U.S. and Iran, contradicting Trump’s statement.
Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Trump’s message suggests he is merely seeking time to regroup before ordering U.S. forces to resume intensified attacks.
The ministry also indicated that Trump’s statement was influenced by rising oil prices in the U.S. and globally, suggesting he wants them to decrease.
Iran further stated that some Middle Eastern countries have expressed a desire to ease tensions, but said they should direct those efforts toward the U.S. and Israel, which it accuses of initiating the conflict.
