President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that he had cancelled planned military strikes against Iran, claiming a breakthrough in peace negotiations with Tehran.

The decision came as Iran's military accused the United States of "moving down the path of escalating tensions" in the region, reflecting heightened hostilities.

Only on Friday, President Trump had previously warned that he was "losing faith" in the prospect of a peace deal, threatening to hit Iran "very hard" before his abrupt reversal.

President Trump had previously warned on Friday that he was "losing faith" in the prospect of a peace deal, threatening to hit Iran "very hard" before his abrupt reversal.

Deal Perimeters Agreed After Regional Requests

According to Mr Trump, the cancellation of the strikes followed requests from Iran and its regional neighbours to hold off any attacks. He stated that "the perimeters of a deal has been agreed to," without offering further details on the nature or terms of this alleged agreement.

This development follows a period of intense friction between Washington and Tehran, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping lane. Both nations have accused each other of destabilising actions in the vital waterway.

Tehran Accuses Washington of Escalation

Iran's military leadership maintained its stance that US actions were deliberately escalating regional tensions. The comments underscore the deep mistrust that persists between the two countries, despite Mr Trump's latest announcement.

It remains unclear what specific concessions or agreements form the basis of the "perimeters of a deal" cited by the US President. The international community will now be watching for any further statements or actions from either Washington or Tehran regarding the path to de-escalation.