Trump Claims Iran Nuclear Deal Ends War, Tehran Rejects Assertions

US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that Washington had effectively ended its conflict with Iran, asserting that Tehran had agreed to abandon nuclear weapons ambitions. However, Iranian officials quickly pushed back, describing the claims as premature and unconfirmed.

Speaking during a tele-rally in support of a Senate candidate, Trump declared the war over and credited his administration with securing major concessions. “We ended the war with Iran today, and they have agreed never to have a nuclear weapon,” he said, adding that a “great deal” had been reached with people expected to start returning home soon. He also mentioned cancelling planned strikes for a third consecutive day, hinting that a signing ceremony could be announced shortly.

 Mixed Signals from Tehran

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei dismissed reports of any agreement as “speculative,” stating clearly that “nothing has been finalised.” Multiple Iranian lawmakers echoed this position, insisting that core principles, including support for regional allies in the “Axis of Resistance,” remained non-negotiable. One MP emphasised that Tehran would not sacrifice its allies or compromise on key security matters.

According to reports citing a draft memorandum of understanding, negotiations are expected to centre on Iran’s nuclear programme and economic issues. The document reportedly includes US commitments to lift sanctions, withdraw forces, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and release frozen funds. Notably, Iran’s missile programme is said to remain off the negotiating table. The draft still requires final approval.

 Diplomatic Interventions Averted Strikes

Sources indicate that last-minute interventions by leaders from Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Pakistan helped convince Trump to step back from further military action. The calls came after Trump had threatened to hit Iran “very hard” and target oil infrastructure, including Kharg Island. These previously unreported conversations reportedly assured the US president that a preliminary understanding was within reach.

The developments come amid continued tensions on multiple fronts. Israeli strikes were reported in southern Lebanon, with Hezbollah claiming several attacks on Israeli positions in response. A regional country reportedly denied Israel airspace access during recent operations, signalling shifting dynamics. Meanwhile, US forces said they intercepted Iranian drones near the Strait of Hormuz.

 Market Reactions and Regional Response

Financial markets responded positively to the de-escalation signals. Oil prices dropped, with Brent crude falling over one percent, as fears of major supply disruptions eased. Wall Street also rallied, with major indices posting solid gains late on Thursday.

Egypt welcomed Trump’s decision to cancel strikes and urged both sides to seize the “available opportunity” for a comprehensive agreement that could foster regional stability. The UN Secretary-General expressed grief over the deaths of Indian sailors in a separate tanker attack off Oman, highlighting the broader human cost of the conflict.

 Uncertainty Lingers Over Final Terms

Despite Trump’s repeated optimistic statements — now reportedly the 39th time he has suggested a deal is imminent — Iranian officials continue to stress that several key issues remain unresolved. Reports also suggest the proposed deal would require Israel to withdraw completely from Lebanon and halt operations against Hezbollah. Preparations for a possible signing ceremony in Europe, including US Air Force planes dispatched for Vice President JD Vance, have been noted, though Iran has not confirmed acceptance.

Local authorities in affected areas continue to monitor the situation closely. While diplomatic channels appear active, ground realities in Lebanon and the Gulf show persistent friction. Analysts suggest any final agreement would need to carefully balance nuclear concerns with broader regional security arrangements.

The coming days are expected to clarify whether the current momentum leads to a formal deal or remains part of ongoing high-stakes negotiations. For now, the contrast between Washington’s assertions and Tehran’s cautious stance underscores the complexities involved in reaching a lasting resolution.

India Urges Nationals To Exit Iran As US-Iran Ceasefire Takes Effect

Two-Week Truce Announced After Intense Diplomatic Push

India on Wednesday issued a fresh advisory for its nationals in Iran, strongly urging them to “expeditiously exit” the war-hit country even as the United States and Iran announced a conditional two-week ceasefire.

The Ministry of External Affairs advised Indian citizens to leave immediately, citing the unpredictable security situation. The advisory came shortly after US President Donald Trump announced a temporary halt to military strikes on Iran in exchange for Tehran reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Ceasefire Terms Announced By Trump

President Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform, said he was willing to suspend bombings and attacks for two weeks if Iran immediately reopened the strait. Washington received a “10-point proposal” from Tehran, with most longstanding disputes already seeing broad agreement, Trump added.

Trump told AFP the United States had achieved a “total and complete victory” following the deal. He also noted that China played a role in bringing Iran to the negotiating table, ahead of his planned visit to Beijing in May.

Iran Confirms Safe Maritime Passage

Iran confirmed it would guarantee safe maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks, provided attacks are halted. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the arrangement would begin immediately and involve coordination with Iran’s armed forces.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council added that negotiations with the US are set to begin Friday in Islamabad and will last for two weeks, with the possibility of extension by mutual consent.

India Issues Strong Advisory For Citizens

India’s fresh advisory marked a significant escalation in its travel warning. New Delhi has been closely monitoring the conflict, which has disrupted global energy supplies and triggered volatility in financial markets.

The government has been in touch with Indian nationals in Iran through its embassy in Tehran. Officials indicated that contingency plans are being reviewed to ensure safe evacuation if the situation deteriorates further.

Israel Backs Ceasefire But Excludes Lebanon

In a statement Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Israel supports Trump’s decision to suspend strikes against Iran for two weeks. However, the deal does not cover the war with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Netanyahu’s office said the ceasefire is subject to Iran immediately opening the Strait of Hormuz and stopping all attacks on the US, Israel and countries in the region. The statement said Israel also supports US efforts to ensure Iran no longer poses a nuclear or missile threat.

Global Reactions And Market Impact

Oil prices fell sharply following the announcement, with global benchmark Brent crude dropping about 13.6% to $94.50 a barrel. Indian benchmark indices soared, with the Sensex skyrocketing 2,700 points at opening.

The United Nations, European Union, and several countries including Germany, Japan, and Indonesia welcomed the truce. However, missile alerts continued in Israel and the UAE even after the announcement, indicating lingering tensions.

What Next For The Region

Negotiations are set to begin Friday in Islamabad, with Pakistan playing a key mediating role. The two-week window will be used to finalise and implement a broader deal.

Trump has said the United States “will be helping with the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz” and that “big money will be made” as Iran can start its reconstruction process. The world now watches whether this temporary pause can lead to a lasting resolution in West Asia.