Trump Cancels Planned Iran Strike After Regional Requests, Promises Strait of Hormuz Opening

Following a tense 24 hours, U.S. President Donald Trump canceled a planned military strike against Iran overnight between Saturday and Sunday. He announced the decision on his social media platform Truth, stating that Iran and several other Middle Eastern countries requested the halt. Trump said the cancellation was part of an agreement that includes fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending the Iranian nuclear threat. He emphasized that the decision was made for the benefit of the entire world and for Iran's survival and prosperity. Trump also noted that Israel is part of the commitment not to attack Iran.

Earlier, Axios reported that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed concerns to Trump about the extensive strike plan against Iran. According to U.S. sources and an additional insider familiar with the conversation, the Saudis sought clarifications and urged Trump to de-escalate tensions and avoid launching an attack. About 30 minutes before Trump's announcement, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Fox News that Iran aimed to amass a large arsenal of missiles and drones to protect its nuclear facilities. Rubio said the only reason Iran agreed to dismantle its weapons and reopen the strait was because the U.S. was negotiating from a position of strength, unlike in the past.