Iran rejects Trump peace claims as tensions rise and US pauses strike plans

In a sharp rebuttal to remarks by Donald Trump, Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has dismissed reports of ongoing negotiations with the United States, calling them “fake news” aimed at manipulating global financial and oil markets.

Posting on X, Ghalibaf categorically denied any direct engagement with Washington, stating that “no negotiations have been held with the US” and accusing the narrative of being a strategic distraction as tensions escalate between Iran, the US and Israel. He asserted that Iranians are seeking “complete and remorseful punishment of the aggressors,” underlining unified political backing for the country’s leadership.

The denial follows media reports, including those cited by Axios, which suggested that Ghalibaf had been in touch with US officials — a claim he firmly rejected.

Adding nuance to Tehran’s position, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei acknowledged that messages had been relayed through “friendly countries,” indicating a US interest in de-escalation talks. However, he reiterated that no direct negotiations have taken place.

Trump signals ‘progress’, pauses strikes

Earlier, Trump struck a more optimistic tone, claiming that the US was engaged in “very good talks” with Iranian leaders. He said Washington was communicating with “a lot of leaders” in Iran, including what he described as a “particular senior leader,” and pointed to “major points of agreement,” particularly concerning Iran’s nuclear programme and its enriched uranium stockpile.

In a significant move, Trump also revealed that planned US strikes targeting Iran’s power and energy infrastructure had been temporarily paused to allow diplomatic efforts to proceed. The decision comes amid heightened tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil shipments.

Tehran unmoved, warns of swift retaliation

Despite Washington’s overtures, Iran has maintained a firm stance. Officials reiterated that their position on the Strait of Hormuz and broader conflict conditions remains unchanged, warning that any attack on critical infrastructure would invite a “swift and decisive” response.

The widening gap between Washington’s claims of progress and Tehran’s outright denial underscores a deepening geopolitical standoff, where diplomacy, disinformation, and deterrence appear to be unfolding in parallel.