Washington delays military action as regional allies push for negotiations
US President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that he is putting planned military strikes against Iran on hold, saying a diplomatic framework to end the prolonged conflict is beginning to take shape.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Washington exploring a broader agreement involving regional allies to prevent further escalation.
Trump pauses planned military action
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he had decided to cancel a planned military operation for the time being, expressing optimism that ongoing diplomatic efforts could pave the way for a comprehensive agreement.
He claimed the proposed framework would ensure the immediate reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz while addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme.
Trump also said Israel had agreed to work alongside the United States in pursuing the proposed peace initiative.
“Based on this request, I have agreed, for the future benefit of the world and the survival of a successful and prosperous Iran, to cancel the attack, subject to being able to rapidly make a deal,” Trump wrote.
Saudi Arabia warns against escalation
Before Trump’s announcement, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly held a phone conversation with the US President, expressing concerns over the possibility of additional American military action against Iran.
According to sources familiar with the discussions, Riyadh warned that strikes targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure could trigger retaliatory attacks on oil and energy facilities across Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations.
The Saudi leadership also sought greater clarity on Washington’s military plans amid growing regional uncertainty.
While the White House confirmed the call between the two leaders, it declined to disclose details of the discussion.
Riyadh continues diplomatic outreach
Although Saudi Arabia recently joined US-led operations targeting logistics and weapons facilities linked to Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, the kingdom has continued to advocate diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran.
As part of these efforts, Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman travelled to Washington earlier this week for high-level meetings with President Trump and Vice President JD Vance to discuss the evolving security situation.
US issues regional travel advisory
Amid continuing uncertainty, the US State Department issued fresh travel advisories for American citizens across 10 Middle Eastern countries, urging travellers to remain vigilant.
The advisory covers Bahrain, Israel, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, warning of possible flight disruptions, temporary airspace closures and deteriorating security conditions.
Conflict continues to test US foreign policy
The Iran crisis has emerged as one of the biggest foreign policy challenges facing the Trump administration, with concerns mounting over regional stability, global energy supplies and the potential economic impact of any further escalation.
While Washington has signalled its willingness to pursue diplomacy, officials continue to closely monitor developments as negotiations unfold.
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