WASHINGTON — The United States has postponed potential military strikes against Iran’s energy facilities for an additional 10 days as negotiations aimed at easing tensions remain underway.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the extension Thursday, saying the suspension will remain in effect until April 6 at 8 p.m. Eastern Time following a request from Tehran.
Earlier, Trump had ordered a five-day delay in the planned attacks after warning that U.S. forces could “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if the country failed to reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz within two days.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump said the extended pause would allow diplomatic exchanges to continue, asserting that discussions are progressing despite criticism in some media reports.
The decision comes as Washington searches for a diplomatic exit from the escalating conflict with Iran. Analysts warn that prolonged hostilities could disrupt global oil supplies and fuel inflation, both politically sensitive issues ahead of the U.S. midterm elections.
U.S. officials have reportedly forwarded a 15-point peace proposal to Iran through Pakistani mediators. The plan includes provisions addressing Tehran’s nuclear program, missile development, and uranium reserves.
Iran’s top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, confirmed that indirect messages between the two governments have been exchanged through intermediaries, though he clarified that no formal negotiations have begun.
At the same time, the U.S. military has reinforced its presence in the Middle East by deploying thousands of additional troops, signaling continued pressure on Tehran to consider Washington’s peace proposal.
Trump also issued a warning to Iran, saying it should move quickly toward an agreement with the United States and Israel to end the conflict before the opportunity for a deal disappears.
Sourced online via Yonhap/ia/xf
