Donald Trump said he had considered ordering a major new military strike on Iran on Tuesday but held back amid what he described as emerging prospects for a diplomatic breakthrough to end the ongoing conflict.
Trump said the proposed attack was halted following appeals from Gulf Arab allies, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, who urged restraint as negotiations were reportedly advancing.
Writing on his Truth Social platform, Trump said he had been prepared to authorise a “large-scale assault” on Iran after Tehran rejected elements of a proposed deal, but agreed to pause the plan in light of ongoing diplomatic efforts.
He added that US forces had been instructed to remain on standby for immediate action if talks fail to produce an acceptable agreement.
Speaking later at a White House event, Trump described recent developments as “very positive,” suggesting that regional partners believed a deal could be reached that would prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons—an accusation Tehran continues to deny.
Trump said he would prefer a diplomatic resolution, adding that he would be “very happy” if an agreement could be reached without military escalation.
Iran has repeatedly rejected US proposals, while tensions have escalated across the region, including disputes over sanctions, frozen assets, and control of the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian officials have also continued indirect discussions with Washington through mediators, while insisting that any agreement must include sanctions relief, access to frozen funds, and broader security guarantees.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said engagement with the US “does not mean surrender,” stressing that the country would continue to defend its sovereignty and interests.
Reports from Iranian state-affiliated media indicated ongoing disagreements over uranium stockpiles, nuclear site limitations, and the lifting of sanctions, though some sources suggested limited progress in recent negotiations.
Tensions remain high in the Gulf region, with concerns over maritime security, energy routes, and recent military incidents adding to fears of further escalation.
Analysts say Trump’s remarks reflect a shifting posture between pressure and diplomacy, as regional allies push to avoid a wider conflict while negotiations remain fragile.
