President Donald Trump announced that he has halted what he referred to as a “massive” strike on Iran following requests from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Tehran to allow additional time for diplomatic efforts. As nuclear negotiations continue and a Hormuz agreement is being considered, shipping in the area remains under strain. Stay tuned for the latest updates regarding the conflict in West Asia.
Confirming his conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Trump stated that talks with Tehran would commence on Monday afternoon, with growing optimism for an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and address Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
“It was set to be a massive attack… the largest since World War II. But they’ve asked us not to proceed. They said, ‘Please refrain.’ Their neighbors echoed the same sentiment,” Trump informed reporters.
He continued: “This request comes from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Iran… We’re holding it back… We could execute it any time we choose.”
Trump emphasized that the decision to pause was fueled by hopes that “there’s a potential deal concerning Hormuz, with an upcoming agreement on the nuclear front… I refer to it as the denuclearization of Iran.”
Brent crude prices have fallen to $84 per barrel.
The diplomatic initiative arises as shipping in the region remains precarious. Movement through the Strait of Hormuz has significantly decreased following recent attacks on commercial vessels, while two Saudi oil tankers made their way through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait over the weekend.
Meanwhile, Iran indicated that talks with Oman regarding issues related to the Strait of Hormuz are nearing completion, although Tehran clarified that these discussions are distinct from efforts to reopen the vital waterway.
Stay updated for the latest news.
