Iran‑US war LIVE updates: Iran launches missiles at Israel; oil prices surge after Tehran’s denial of US talks

Confusion surrounds possible US-Iran talks as Donald Trump claimed “productive” negotiations and paused planned strikes, while Tehran firmly denied any such discussions, calling the remarks misleading.

Trump said the two sides held “very strong” talks over the past two days and announced a five-day halt to US strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure, citing progress in discussions.

However, Iran rejected the claim outright, with Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf dismissing it as “fake news” aimed at influencing oil and financial markets.

Amid conflicting narratives, reports suggested indirect messaging through regional intermediaries, though Washington described speculation about possible meetings as premature.

The uncertainty rattled global markets, with oil prices initially plunging after Trump’s announcement before rebounding following Iran’s denial, reflecting continued volatility driven by the ongoing conflict.

Tensions remain high on the ground, with fresh Iranian strikes reported and fears that the wider conflict could escalate despite talk of potential diplomacy.