Al Jazeera News Updates Breaking: US attacks on power plants halted
Mar 23, 2026
Breaking US developments around planned attacks on power plants and a sudden pause in strikes. A high-stakes 48-hour ultimatum and Tehran’s responses that raise escalation risks. New claims of direct US–Iran talks and the unexpected revelation of ongoing communications. A concise briefing that tracks fast-moving diplomatic and security twists.
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Unexpected US Iran Conversations Could Defuse Crisis
- The US and Iran held 'very good and productive conversations' that may lead to resolving hostilities in the Middle East.
- Donald Trump announced the talks and framed them as in-depth, continuing through the week, suggesting an unexpected diplomatic off-ramp.
Five Day Halt On Attacks On Iranian Energy Sites
- Trump ordered a five-day postponement of planned strikes on Iranian power plants, contingent on progress in talks.
- The pause applies to attacks on power and energy infrastructure and was explicitly issued via Truth Social.
Halt Arrives Hours Before Trump's 48 Hour Deadline
- The halt comes just before a 48-hour deadline Trump had given Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face strikes.
- Iran had rejected the deadline and warned of retaliatory strikes on Israel and Gulf states if attacked.