In a surprising turn of events, President Trump took to social media on June 12, saying he had called off a planned military strike and bombing operation against Iran that was set for that evening. According to him, the outcome of negotiations with Iran had been submitted to and approved by the country’s highest leadership. However, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson quickly pushed back, stating that no final conclusion on any US-Iran agreement has been reached and that all rumors about a deal are just guesswork.
Speaking at a White House event, Trump doubled down, claiming he has secured a “very strong memorandum of understanding” with Iran, which could be signed in Europe as early as this weekend, with Vice President Vance attending. He also mentioned phone conversations with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, as well as leaders from Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait, and was about to speak with Turkish President Erdogan.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office later confirmed the call, noting that Netanyahu expressed support for Trump’s promise to limit Iran’s nuclear program and missile capabilities in a final agreement, even though Israel is not a signatory to the memorandum.
Iran’s state TV reported that the Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized no final deal has been reached, dismissing external claims as pure speculation. Iran’s Fars news agency, citing a source, also denied that Tehran had approved any memorandum text, calling Trump’s earlier remarks inaccurate.
The spokesperson added that Qatar and Pakistan are actively mediating US-Iran talks, but US actions are hindering progress. Iran will not compromise on its “red lines.” While most of the agreement’s text is reportedly finalized, Washington keeps shifting its stance, creating contradictions that stall the process. The situation in the Strait of Hormuz has also become more volatile due to US moves.
Earlier that day, Trump had posted on social media threatening a “severe strike” on Iran that evening, vowing to seize Iran’s Kharg Island and other oil infrastructure to fully control its oil and gas market—”just like the US did with Venezuela.” Iran fired back hard.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned on social media: “Wrong strategies and impulsive decisions will reverse and worsen the entire situation, causing severe shocks to energy infrastructure and markets, creating a quagmire that will trap you for years.” The commander of Iran’s Khatam al-Anbia Central Headquarters also issued a stark warning: regional energy security must be guaranteed collectively—”either all countries can export oil and gas, or none can.”
