- Donald Trump claimed the US and Iran had engaged in “very good and productive conversations regarding a complete and total resolution of our hostilities”, leading him to postpone military strikes on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days, which boosted financial markets and lowered oil prices.
- Iran's foreign ministry denied any negotiations with Washington, accusing Trump of fabricating claims to manipulate financial and oil markets and buy time for further military action.
- Trump dismissed Iran's denial, saying that "very strong talks" had occurred, facilitated by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
- The claims follow a period of heightened tensions and tit-for-tat strikes in the Middle East after US-Israeli actions killed Iran's supreme leader, leading to a siege of the Strait of Hormuz and surging oil prices.
- The UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, despite being aware of Trump's claimed talks, expressed a more cautious outlook, preparing for the conflict to continue for an extended period and discussing potential impacts on the cost of living.
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