Trump Orders Five-Day Pause On Iran Strikes After ‘Productive’ Talks
Politics Updated: 23 March 2026 15:28 EAT
American president Donald Trump says U.S. and Iran held “very productive talks” on ending hostilities, orders 5-day pause on strikes
President Donald Trump has ordered a five-day pause on planned United States military strikes against Iran, following what he described as “very good and productive” talks aimed at easing escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The temporary halt affects proposed attacks on Iran’s critical power and energy infrastructure, which had been under consideration after a sharp deterioration in relations between the two sides in recent weeks.
According to U.S. officials, the decision was reached after two days of indirect engagements between Washington and Tehran, with both sides signaling a willingness to explore diplomatic options to prevent further escalation.
Trump indicated that the pause is conditional and will depend on the progress made during the negotiation window, emphasizing that military action remains on the table should talks fail to yield a breakthrough.
The move marks a significant shift from an earlier hardline stance in which the U.S. had issued a 48-hour ultimatum linked to security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil transit route.
Iran had warned it would respond forcefully to any attack, including potential retaliation against U.S. and allied interests in the region, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
The conflict, which intensified in late February, has already resulted in significant casualties and disruptions to global energy supplies, with markets reacting sharply to each development.
Following the announcement of the pause, global oil prices declined and financial markets showed signs of recovery, reflecting cautious optimism that diplomatic efforts could avert further military confrontation.
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