Trump Delays Iran Strike as Peace Talks Continue, Markets Watch Strait of Hormuz Closely

Iran said it is reviewing the latest proposal from the United States aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, after U.S. President Donald Trump signaled he may delay military action in favor of reaching a diplomatic agreement. Iranian officials confirmed that they had received updated U.S. positions regarding the war and were carefully examining the details while indirect negotiations reportedly continued through Pakistan.

Trump recently stated that discussions with Tehran were progressing positively and indicated he was willing to postpone a planned military operation for several more days to allow diplomacy a final opportunity. However, the U.S. president also warned that additional military measures could still be taken if both sides fail to secure a peace deal. He described the Iran conflict as being in its “final stages,” while stressing that Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons.

Iran’s nuclear program remains the central issue in negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Iranian leaders previously warned that any new U.S. military strikes could trigger a wider regional conflict extending beyond the Middle East. Despite weeks of talks and a fragile ceasefire currently holding between Iran and the United States, meaningful progress toward a long-term resolution has remained limited.

Global markets continue to monitor the situation closely, particularly developments surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes. Shipping activity through the waterway remains significantly below pre-war levels due to ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and security concerns.

Iran has also reportedly discussed imposing toll fees on vessels traveling through the Strait of Hormuz as part of its broader economic and strategic proposals during negotiations. The continuing tensions have influenced oil prices, currency markets, and investor sentiment worldwide, with traders carefully watching for any escalation that could disrupt global energy supplies further in 2026.