Trump Halts Iran Airstrike After International Requests; Talks to Begin Monday

President Donald Trump revealed on Sunday that the United States has postponed a significant airstrike against Iran. The decision came after receiving requests from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Iran itself. Trump stated that the U.S. was fully prepared for the strike, which he described as potentially the largest since World War II, but chose to hold back.

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We received requests from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Iran. We were ready to attack, and by far the largest attack by us.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump explained that the requesting nations believe a deal is imminent regarding the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's denuclearization. "We received requests from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Iran. We were ready to attack, and by far the largest attack by us," Trump said. He added that Iran also strongly conveyed its desire to reach an agreement.

Negotiations between the U.S. and Iran are scheduled to commence on the afternoon of Monday, June 3rd. Trump expressed his hope that an agreement could be reached to save many lives and prevent the unnecessary use of military force. However, he maintained a readiness to strike if necessary, stating, "We are ready to attack whenever we want."

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We want to save a lot of lives and not use unnecessary military force.

Trump also mentioned speaking directly with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who reportedly preferred a negotiated settlement over an attack due to unpredictable consequences like refugee flows. While Trump indicated an agreement was close, official confirmation from Iran was pending. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that negotiations regarding the Strait of Hormuz shipping routes were in their final stages, though a spokesperson noted this did not immediately mean the strait's reopening.

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We are ready to attack whenever we want.