Iran expressed skepticism of U.S. intentions after President Donald Trump twice ordered attacks during nuclear negotiations, only to postpone them later, according to Iran’s Foreign Ministry. Spokespersons said deep distrust persists despite ongoing diplomatic contacts. Tehran links credibility of talks to removal of military threats, sanctions pressure and release of frozen assets.
Iranian negotiators have criticized what they describe as a pattern of U.S. moves that undermine confidence at critical moments. Trump said he called off a very major planned strike on Iran to allow more time for negotiations requested by Gulf leaders.
Iran’s statements suggest the pause does not alone restore trust built over years of broken deals and escalatory cycles. Regional governments fear wider war that could disrupt Hormuz shipping and energy prices. European diplomats urge sustained dialogue while Israel and Iran continue indirect confrontation through proxies and strikes.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry emphasized that diplomatic processes require consistent behavior, not alternating threats and reprieves. Domestic hard-liners may exploit U.S. unpredictability to argue against concessions on nuclear limits. Oil markets reacted cautiously to postponement news, balancing relief against unresolved enrichment and inspection disputes. Until verifiable agreements emerge, Iran’s skepticism will color every public statement from Tehran.
Trump said he postponed a very major attack on Iran to allow negotiations more time after Gulf leaders intervened. Iran’s Foreign Ministry said such reversals reinforce distrust built over prior collapsed deals and sanctions. Tehran continues to seek relief from economic pressure and security guarantees alongside nuclear diplomacy.
Regional shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains a concern for India and Nordic leaders who called for freedom of navigation. Until verifiable agreements emerge, Iranian statements will emphasize skepticism toward U.S. intentions regardless of temporary military pauses. Oil traders price risk premiums reflecting both diplomacy and strike possibilities. Gulf diplomats said they would continue urging both Washington and Tehran to keep diplomatic channels open despite Iranian statements of distrust. Officials said additional information would be released when reviews are complete. Stakeholders continue to monitor developments and prepare responses for affected communities. Officials said additional information would be released when reviews are complete. Stakeholders continue to monitor developments and prepare responses for affected communities.
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Sources:
https://www.democracynow.org/2026/5/19/headlines