The Middle East moved a step away from a serious military escalation after Donald Trump announced he had postponed planned US strikes on Iran.
The US president revealed that Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates requested Washington to delay the attack to allow ongoing negotiations with Tehran a chance to succeed. The strikes were reportedly scheduled for Tuesday before the sudden reversal.
However, Donald Trump also warned that the US military remains fully prepared for immediate action if diplomacy does not succeed.
Gulf Pressure Changes Washington’s Course
In a post on Truth Social, Donald Trump said Gulf leaders informed him that a deal with Iran could still be reached.
He described the negotiations as “serious” and claimed there was now a “very acceptable” path forward for the United States. At the same time, he repeated one firm condition: “NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS FOR IRAN!”
Later, while speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump signaled cautious optimism.
“There seems to be a very good chance that they can work something out,” he said. “If we can do that without bombing the hell out of them, I’d be very happy.”
Despite the softer tone, the Pentagon has reportedly been instructed to remain ready for a “full, large-scale assault” if talks fail.
Why Gulf States Fear Another Escalation
The request from Gulf countries reflects growing fears across the region over how Iran could retaliate after another US attack.
Iran still possesses significant missile and drone capabilities. Security analysts believe Tehran could target:
- Gulf airports
- Oil and petrochemical facilities
- Desalination plants supplying drinking water
- Shipping routes near the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz remains especially critical because nearly 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas passes through the narrow waterway.
Iran has continued tightening control around the strait following months of regional conflict. As a result, oil prices have already surged globally.
Tensions Continue Despite Negotiation Efforts
Although the ceasefire introduced in April largely remains in place, tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to intensify behind the scenes. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian insisted that negotiations would not come at the cost of national sovereignty.
“Dialogue does not mean surrender,” he said, adding that Iran entered the talks with “dignity, authority, and the preservation of the nation’s rights.”
Meanwhile, Iranian officials reportedly rejected several US demands involving uranium transfers and restrictions on nuclear facilities. Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear programme exists for peaceful purposes only. However, the US and European allies continue accusing Tehran of pursuing nuclear weapons capabilities.
Donald Trump Faces Pressure at Home
The latest decision also arrives during building political pressure within the United States.
A recent New York Times/Siena poll found that 64% of voters believe going to war with Iran was the wrong decision. The survey also showed Donald Trump’s approval rating dropped to 37%. The numbers reveal increasing public frustration over foreign policy, economic concerns, and prolonged instability in the region.
For now, diplomacy appears to have bought time. Yet, with military threats remaining active on both sides, the situation could take a grim turn if negotiations crumble again.
