Iran’s state-aligned media ridiculed President Trump’s decision to pause strikes, claiming no negotiations are taking place and calling the US bluff exposed
Tehran: Iran’s media, including Press TV and IRIB, reacted strongly to US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a five-day pause on military strikes against Iranian power plants. The state-aligned outlets dismissed Trump’s claim of “productive conversations” and suggested the pause was driven by Iran’s credible military threats rather than diplomacy.
Press TV stated that there has been no contact for talks with the US, whether direct or indirect, highlighting that negotiations are not underway. A senior security official cited by the outlet said the postponement underscores ongoing US vulnerability amid rising domestic and financial pressures.
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Mehr News echoed the sentiment on social media, labelling Trump’s threat a “bluff” and crediting Iran’s response to energy site attacks for forcing Washington to reconsider. Tehran Times described the pause as a “retreat masquerading as diplomacy,” while IRIB emphasised that the Strait of Hormuz remains strategically closed and Iran’s energy infrastructure continues to be a critical leverage point.
Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesperson for Iran’s National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, posted on X that “Trump and America have backed down again… another defeat for the devil,” reflecting Tehran’s narrative of successful deterrence.
The Iranian media’s unified messaging signals that while the US seeks a temporary pause, Iran remains firm on deterrence, maintaining escalation as a mutual and ongoing strategy in the region.
Published: 23 Mar 2026, 06:23 pm IST
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