President Donald Trump has signalled a potential thaw in the US-Iran conflict, reversing his earlier threats to strike Iran’s power plants after what he described as rapid back-channel discussions.

Speaking in Memphis, Tennessee, Trump said, “They want to settle, and we’re going to get it done,” just days after warning that Iran had 48 hours to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face attacks on its energy infrastructure.

Trump’s sudden change in tone comes amid mediation efforts by multiple countries, including Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, and Oman.

Reports suggest that a 15-point proposal has been shared with Iran through intermediaries, covering nuclear restrictions, limits on defence capabilities, a cessation of support for proxy groups, and recognition of Israel.

While the White House has not provided details on direct negotiations, Trump credited envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner with leading the discussions.

Pakistani officials, including the Intelligence Chief Lt. Gen.

Asim Malik, is reportedly engaged in facilitating the talks, and Pakistan has offered to host a meeting later this week, with Vice President JD Vance potentially attending.

Tehran has denied holding direct talks with the US, with Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf saying the postponement of strikes was a strategic US retreat.

Nevertheless, messages appear to have passed between officials, testing the waters for a possible ceasefire.

Trump’s pivot comes after warnings from Gulf allies that targeting Iran’s civilian power sites could trigger a dangerous escalation.

While new Marine deployments continue, the announcement of talks has already prompted a Wall Street rally and a drop in Brent crude prices.

The ultimate sign-off on any deal remains uncertain, as Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei’s role in diplomacy that is unclear.

Nevertheless, Trump expressed optimism, telling his audience in Memphis, “You have to understand, my whole life has been a negotiation. But with Iran, we’ve been negotiating for a long time. And this time, they mean business.”