US President Donald Trump said he postponed a planned military strike on Iran after Gulf leaders urged restraint, citing renewed hopes for diplomacy to end the ongoing conflict.
Trump revealed that a large-scale assault had been prepared for Tuesday after Iran rejected the outlines of a proposed agreement. However, leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates reportedly requested that Washington delay military action, arguing that serious negotiations were underway.
Read More: Pakistan relays revised Iranian proposal to US
In a post on his social media platform, Trump said Gulf allies believed a deal could still be reached and asked him to “hold off” on the planned operation. He added that the US military remains ready to launch a “full, large-scale assault” if talks collapse or no acceptable agreement is secured.
Following his announcement that the resumption of combat operations against Iran would be postponed, U.S. President Donald J. Trump told the press today that Gulf leaders from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar asked him to postpone strikes for “2 or 3 days,” and… pic.twitter.com/c8l8PFqxSd
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) May 18, 2026
Later, while speaking at a White House event, Trump signaled cautious optimism about diplomatic progress. He said recent developments were encouraging and suggested there was a realistic possibility of reaching an agreement that would prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
Iran has consistently denied seeking nuclear arms and has rejected several US proposals. Tehran is reportedly demanding the release of frozen Iranian assets, removal of sanctions and compensation linked to the conflict.
Iranian officials confirmed indirect exchanges with the United States through Pakistan as a mediator, while maintaining that any negotiations must preserve Iran’s sovereignty and national interests.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high across the Gulf region. Iran has tightened control over the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, a major global oil transit route, contributing to volatility in international energy markets.
Iranian media reports suggest the latest US proposal includes limits on Iran’s nuclear facilities and uranium stockpile, while Washington may consider easing certain oil-related sanctions during negotiations.
Read More: Trump says ceasefire holds after Gulf clashes
Regional security concerns have also intensified following reported drone activity and military operations linked to Iran.
Analysts say Trump’s decision to delay military action reflects both pressure from Gulf allies and a desire to avoid deeper regional escalation, while keeping military options open if diplomacy fails.