Trump pauses attacks on Iran's power infrastructure amid 'very good' drawdown talks — Hormuz deadline extended

President Trump ordered the US Department of War to pause attacks against Iran's energy infrastructure amid ongoing negotiations with Iranian leaders, Fox News reported Tuesday. Trump described the talks as 'very good' and said they could lead to a 'complete' end of hostilities. He also extended his 48-hour deadline for Iran to clear the Strait of Hormuz, which was set to expire Monday evening (March 30). The pause on energy infrastructure strikes is the most significant tactical restraint the US has shown since the war began February 28. Earlier the same day, Hegseth told Pentagon reporters that the US would continue 'with even more intensity' if no deal — suggesting the pause was determined after the presser or represents a specific diplomatic signal. Separately, China and Pakistan called for an immediate ceasefire in Beijing. Iran President Pezeshkian said Iran is prepared to end the war if security guarantees are met. The combination of Trump pausing power strikes + extending the Hormuz deadline + describing 'very good' talks represents the clearest D32 signal yet of a possible off-ramp. However, Iran's IRGC simultaneously issued its 18-company corporate threat with an April 1 deadline, and B-52s flew over Iran for the first time — the military track and diplomatic track appear to be running simultaneously.