March 23, 2026

Iran denies negotiations with US after Trump announcement

Iran has denied holding any negotiation with the United States, contradicting claims by President Donald Trump that talks were underway to end ongoing hostilities.

Iranian media, including the Mehr News Agency, quoted the country’s foreign ministry as saying there were no discussions between Tehran and Washington. It described Trump’s remarks as part of efforts to influence global energy prices.

The denial comes after Trump said the two sides had held “productive conversations” over the past two days aimed at achieving a “complete and total resolution” to the conflict in the Middle East.

He also stated that he had instructed the United States Department of Defense to postpone planned airstrikes on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days, pending the outcome of what he described as ongoing talks.

Trump added that discussions would continue throughout the week.

The announcement had earlier triggered a drop in global oil prices, amid expectations of easing tensions.

However, the situation remains tense, with a looming ultimatum for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route.

Tehran has warned it could deploy naval mines in the Gulf and target power infrastructure across the region if military action is taken, raising fears of a wider conflict and a potential global energy crisis.