Trump Halts US Strikes on Iran After Regional Mediation, Warns of Swift Military Return

US President Donald Trump revealed on Monday that he decided to pause American military strikes against Iran following direct requests from countries mediating between the US and Iran. He emphasized that the diplomatic window is brief and warned that failure of talks would lead to a resumption of much stronger military action. "We are having very deep talks with Iran. If they don't succeed, we will return to very powerful military action," Trump said in an interview with Channel 12 news.

When asked about the timeframe for the diplomatic efforts, Trump responded, "Not much time. Either it moves quickly, or it doesn't happen at all." The current negotiations focus on reaching an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and to renew comprehensive nuclear deal talks. These discussions are primarily between Iran and Oman, with active involvement from Qatar, Pakistan, Egypt, and US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

Trump stated that he made the decision to halt strikes on Friday after the mediating countries, along with other Middle Eastern nations, urged him to give diplomacy another chance. "Everyone involved in the talks with Iran asked me: 'Don't shoot,'" he said, adding that he believes Iran is interested in reaching a deal. Trump also noted that he saw no risk in granting a short diplomatic extension, pointing out that since the pause in strikes, oil prices have fallen and stock markets have risen.