In recent updates, President Donald Trump announced he was engaged in discussions with Iran to put an end to military hostilities. He mentioned delaying any retaliatory measures targeting power infrastructures for a period of five days, citing positive progress in the negotiations.

While Trump shared some insights into the progress of these discussions, he remained vague when pressed about the identities of his interlocutors.

He clarified, however, that he was not in communication with Moqtaba Khamenei, often referred to as the elusive “Supreme Leader.” Khamenei, whom many regard as a mere figurehead, has been conspicuously absent since the conflict began, raising doubts about his current status, which could complicate any direct dealings.

Meanwhile, Iranian officials denied any reports of direct dialogue, a stance that aligns with their historical pattern of obfuscation. Their tendency to attack neighboring countries while simultaneously denying such actions reflects a strategy aimed at maintaining market instability and projecting an image of resilience.

The Iranians were denying reports of direct talks. But they haven’t exactly been the most honest brokers, as we’ve seen. They attack their neighbors and claim they aren’t attacking them in the next breath. And it benefits their position to deny talks to keep the markets in drama, to appear like they’re being tough.