Trump Delays Military Strike on Iran, Urges Swift Diplomatic Progress Amid Tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump revealed in a Monday interview with Israeli journalist Barak Ravid that he postponed planned military strikes against Iranian targets last weekend following urgent appeals from Middle Eastern and global mediators. Trump emphasized that Washington is engaged in "very deep" talks with Tehran but warned that the diplomatic window is extremely limited. He stated unequivocally that if negotiations fail, the U.S. will return to "very powerful military action" immediately.

Trump explained that various parties involved in the dialogue urged him with direct pleas of "Don't shoot," seeking to give diplomacy another chance. He believes Iran's leadership currently wants a deal but stressed that patience is not unlimited. The ongoing negotiations focus on reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz and initiating discussions on a comprehensive new nuclear agreement. Besides direct talks between Iran and Oman, countries such as Qatar, Pakistan, and Egypt, along with Trump's envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are actively involved behind the scenes.

Despite U.S. warnings, Iran maintains a defiant stance. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei stated at a press conference that Iran has not sought to renew peace talks with the U.S. Iranian state media reported that six ships attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz without Iranian permission were turned back, with the Revolutionary Guards asserting full control over the strait.

Amid rising tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu departed for Washington on Monday to meet with Trump. Netanyahu plans to present updated intelligence on Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Israeli officials say Netanyahu aims to align with Trump on future military and diplomatic steps, emphasizing Israel's goal to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Israeli experts suggest U.S. technological limitations in striking deeply buried Iranian missile and nuclear sites may partly explain Washington's recent restraint.

The delay in strikes has led to some market calm, reflected in lower oil prices and stock market gains, according to Trump. However, the situation remains volatile as diplomatic efforts continue under tight time constraints.