Trump Says Fresh US-Iran Talks Begin Monday After Halting Planned Strikes

United States President Donald Trump has announced that a new round of negotiations between the US and Iran is scheduled to begin on Monday, following his decision to suspend planned military strikes against Tehran in favour of diplomacy.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump said the proposed military operation, which he described as one of the largest since World War II, was put on hold after Gulf allies and Iran encouraged continued dialogue.

According to Trump, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar urged the United States to delay military action, expressing confidence that a diplomatic agreement could still be reached. He added that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also warned of the potential regional consequences of a new conflict.

The US president said the upcoming negotiations would initially focus on resolving issues surrounding the Strait of Hormuz before moving to discussions on Iran's nuclear programme. However, he did not disclose where the talks would take place or who would participate.

Meanwhile, regional diplomatic efforts have intensified. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held discussions with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Pakistan's Army Chief, General Asim Munir, focusing on regional security, stability and political solutions to ongoing tensions.

Iran also confirmed that negotiations with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz are in their final stages. Iranian officials clarified that the discussions concern shipping arrangements and are separate from any decision about reopening or closing the strategic waterway.

Following Trump's announcement, global oil prices fell sharply as concerns over a possible escalation in the Gulf eased. Brent crude and US West Texas Intermediate both recorded significant declines in early trading after investors reacted positively to the renewed diplomatic efforts.

The renewed talks are expected to test whether diplomacy can reduce tensions and prevent further conflict between Washington and Tehran after months of military confrontations and failed ceasefire attempts.

• Tweet
• Share
• Share
• Share
• Share