Trump Signals Final Chance for Peace as Iran Parliament Dismisses US Talk Claims as ‘Fake News’
US President Donald Trump has indicated that Iran has a “final opportunity” to pursue peace, even as Tehran rejected claims that any direct negotiations with Washington are currently underway.
In a series of statements on Monday, Trump said there had been “productive discussions” aimed at achieving a comprehensive resolution to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
He also revealed that planned US strikes on Iranian power facilities had been delayed for five days, a move that briefly eased tensions in global energy markets.
However, Iran swiftly dismissed the claims. Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, the country’s parliament speaker, denied that talks had taken place, describing such reports as “fake news” intended to influence oil prices and public perception.
Escalating Yet Uncertain Conflict
The contrasting narratives highlight the rapidly shifting and unpredictable nature of the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. While Washington has hinted at diplomacy, military activity continues across the region.
Israeli forces have reportedly intensified strikes targeting key locations in Tehran, while Iran has launched missile attacks toward Israeli territory, further escalating tensions. The situation remains volatile, with both sides exchanging threats alongside signals of possible negotiation.
Strait of Hormuz Tensions
Earlier, Trump had issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding that Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route.
He warned that failure to comply could result in US strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure.
Although that deadline has now been extended, the waterway remains largely disrupted, raising concerns about global oil supply and economic stability.
Global Concerns Grow
The International Committee of the Red Cross has warned that the conflict risks reaching a “point of no return,” citing damage to essential infrastructure such as energy, water and healthcare systems.
The organization also expressed alarm over potential risks to nuclear facilities, which could have long-term consequences.
Meanwhile, reports from Lebanon indicate that the death toll has exceeded 1,000 amid ongoing Israeli military operations, underscoring the growing humanitarian toll of the crisis.
Markets React to Uncertainty
Financial markets showed immediate reaction to Trump’s announcement of delayed strikes. Global oil prices fell sharply after earlier surging above $110 per barrel, while major stock indexes in the United States and Europe rebounded on hopes of de-escalation.
Analysts, however, caution that the situation remains highly uncertain, with both diplomatic signals and military developments unfolding simultaneously.
“One More Chance”
Speaking to reporters, Trump reiterated that Iran has “one more chance” to avoid further escalation, expressing cautious optimism about the possibility of an agreement.
Despite this, the lack of confirmation from Tehran leaves the status of any potential negotiations unclear, as both sides continue to project sharply different positions on the crisis.
