Addis Ababa - U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered a 10-day suspension of military strikes targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure, marking a tentative pause in escalating hostilities between Washington and Iran.

The directive halts attacks on oil and electricity facilities and is reported to have followed a request from Tehran, although Iranian authorities have yet to issue an official response. President Trump indicated that ongoing negotiations between the two sides are progressing under “favourable conditions,” suggesting a possible diplomatic opening.

However, a senior Iranian official has dismissed a U.S.-backed peace proposal as “biased and unjust,” reflecting persistent mistrust between the parties.

The conflict has already inflicted significant global economic repercussions. Oil prices have surged by nearly 40pc, while fertiliser costs have doubled, intensifying inflationary pressures worldwide. The situation has also disrupted maritime trade flows, with Iran continuing partial restrictions along the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon disclosed the deployment of unmanned high-speed patrol vessels, signalling an expansion of U.S. military posture in the region.

Despite the temporary ceasefire, Washington has warned of severe consequences should Iran fail to reopen key shipping routes or curb its nuclear programme, underscoring the fragility of the current diplomatic window.