Trump Halts Iran Strikes, Settlement Unclear
US President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he has halted planned military strikes against Iran, claiming a diplomatic breakthrough in efforts to extend the fragile ceasefire. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump declared, "We just made a great settlement of the war with Iran," though he offered few details.
The ceasefire, in place since April, is seen as vital to preventing renewed hostilities and allowing talks over Iran's nuclear program to continue. Trump expressed confidence that an agreement would be finalized within days.
Iran, however, stopped short of confirming progress. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said mediators were still engaged and noted contradictions in the US position had complicated negotiations. Iranian media suggested Trump's announcement reflected a tactical retreat rather than a genuine breakthrough.
Earlier in the day, Trump had threatened to strike Iran "very hard" and seize control of strategic oil facilities, including Kharg Island. The nuclear program and Iran's influence over the Strait of Hormuz remain key sticking points in talks.
Despite uncertainty, global markets reacted positively, with stocks rising and oil prices falling after Trump's comments. Whether this marks a real step toward peace or another temporary pause in the volatile conflict remains unresolved.
