President Donald Trump has claimed “very good” talks with Iran, suggesting a potential resolution to the ongoing crisis within two to three weeks. However, the lack of detail and Tehran’s denial of negotiations have cast doubt on the prospects for peace. Speaking beside Air Force One, Trump offered vague assurances that Iran would not obtain a nuclear weapon and that control of the Strait of Hormuz might be shared, but he refused to name his Iranian interlocutor, citing safety concerns.
Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, denied any negotiations, accusing Trump of manipulating financial and oil markets. “No negotiations have been held with the US, and fake news is used to manipulate the financial and oil markets and escape the quagmire in which the US and Israel are trapped,” Ghalibaf said. Iran’s foreign ministry acknowledged receiving messages from friendly countries about a US request for talks but denied direct engagement.
The talks, reportedly mediated by Pakistan, come as the US military positions forces for a potential strike or occupation of Iranian islands to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are leading the diplomatic effort, which has been tentatively welcomed by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he discussed the deal with Trump, emphasizing that it must protect Israel’s interests, though Israel continues military operations in Iran and Lebanon.
Experts suggest the negotiations may be a tactic to buy time amid volatile oil and energy markets. The Pentagon is moving marines and airborne soldiers into position, preparing for a possible military response if diplomacy fails. Trump’s promises of a swift resolution remain unsubstantiated, with critics pointing to the lack of concrete progress.
