Trump Says Iran Talks Begin Monday, Refuses to Set Deal Deadline

President Donald Trump confirmed that talks with Iran would begin Monday afternoon, though he declined to reveal where the negotiations would take place or who would attend. The announcement follows his earlier claim that he had called off an imminent military strike to allow more time for a deal aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and addressing Iran’s nuclear program.

No Timeline Set Despite Mounting Pressure

When asked whether there was a deadline for Iran to reach an agreement, Trump avoided giving a direct answer, saying he would rather avoid further loss of life. The comments mark the latest shift in a conflict that has seen repeated cycles of threats followed by renewed diplomatic openings since fighting began in late February.

Strait Closure Driving Global Energy Costs Higher

Iran has largely shut the Strait of Hormuz, a route that previously carried about a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas, pushing energy prices higher and adding to inflation pressures. Oil prices fell more than 4% in early Monday trading following news of the planned talks.

Regional Diplomacy Intensifies

Iran’s foreign minister held calls with Saudi and Pakistani officials over the weekend, while separate talks with Oman regarding a new shipping route through the strait were reported to be in their final stages. Israeli officials say they remain in close coordination with Washington and have warned they will act if Iran advances its nuclear or missile programs.