President Trump announced he decided to delay ordering new military strikes against Iran after consulting with key Gulf leaders, particularly Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Trump stated that a significant military operation had been prepared for implementation but was called off to allow diplomacy additional time to proceed. The decision came after conversations with leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as at the request of unspecified Iranian officials.
Trump indicated that the discussion with the Saudi crown prince was instrumental in his decision-making process. The crown prince expressed a strong preference for pursuing a negotiated settlement rather than military action, citing concerns about potential economic repercussions and regional destabilization. Saudi officials conveyed that while Gulf nations could defend against Iranian retaliatory measures, Kuwait might be vulnerable to attacks by Iran-backed militias operating in Iraq.
According to Trump, the emerging agreement would include restoration of transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global energy trade that has been partially disrupted since the conflict began. The arrangement would also address American concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear capabilities. However, Iranian officials disputed this characterization, with a Foreign Ministry spokesperson stating that the strait would not return to its pre-conflict status and indicating ongoing discussions limited to shipping coordination with Oman.
The development represents another shift in Trump’s approach toward Iran after he had previously expressed diminishing confidence in ongoing negotiations. Trump indicated that fresh talks were expected to commence later that day, though specific participants were not identified. A regional official involved in mediation efforts confirmed that proposals under discussion include halting regional attacks, ending the U.S. naval blockade on Iran, and permitting Iranian oil exports.
Iranian defense officials responded by emphasizing preparedness and vigilance regarding potential U.S. threats. The announcement also noted Israeli commitment to implementing a ceasefire agreement, though Israel did not issue a public statement regarding the development. No final agreement has been finalized, with mediation efforts continuing among involved parties.
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