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Trump announces 5-day pause in Iran strikes, Tehran denies talks occurred

US president signals de-escalation after earlier ultimatum, says Washington has held “very strong talks” with Tehran.

Published: 12:00pm, 24 Mar 2026

US President Donald Trump said on March 23, 2026, that the US would halt plans for military strikes on Iranian power plants for five days following discussions with Tehran. But Iranian officials quickly denied talks were under way, describing Trump’s remarks as “fake news” designed to prop up financial markets.

Trump announces 5-day pause in Iran strikes, Tehran denies talks occurred

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}US president signals de-escalation after earlier ultimatum, says Washington has held “very strong talks” with Tehran.

US president signals de-escalation after earlier ultimatum, says Washington has held “very strong talks” with Tehran.