Iranian media "slaps back" at Trump: claims no direct or indirect contact has occurred with Trump

Regarding U.S. President Trump's statement today (March 23) that "the U.S. and Iran have had very good and productive talks," Iranian Fars News Agency reported, citing sources, that "Iran has had no direct communication with the U.S., nor has there been communication through intermediaries." The office of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has also not made any statements regarding Trump's remarks. Earlier, Trump posted on social media, stating, "I am pleased to report that the U.S. and Iran have had very good and productive talks over the past two days to completely and comprehensively resolve our hostilities in the Middle East. Based on the tone and atmosphere of these in-depth, detailed, and constructive talks—which will continue this week—I have instructed the Department of War (Defense Department) to postpone any and all military strike actions against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for 5 days, provided that the ongoing meetings and discussions are successful."