Trump Cancels Iran Strike After Saudi Pressure Amid Rising Fears of Iranian Preemptive Attack

US President Donald Trump decided to cancel a planned military strike against Iran following intense pressure from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This move contrasts with the United Arab Emirates' stance, which supported a more aggressive approach toward Iran. The decision came after a dramatic phone call between bin Salman and Trump, alongside a new proposal from Qatar to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran responded to positively.

Despite the de-escalation, there is growing concern about a potential Iranian preemptive attack targeting US bases, Gulf states, and possibly Israel if diplomatic talks fail. An Iranian diplomat warned that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps might launch such an attack even without a prior US strike. The Gulf countries remain divided: Saudi Arabia advocates for dialogue to avoid a broad conflict that could severely damage regional infrastructure, while the UAE urges Trump to take harsher military action, including possible control of the Strait of Hormuz and ground maneuvers.

Saudi Arabia emphasized that diplomatic efforts aim to maintain regional security and prevent escalation into a wider conflict with serious regional and international consequences. Meanwhile, Qatar's mediation proposal to alter shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz received a positive response from Tehran, though disagreements persist over Iran's demand to charge tolls on maritime vessels.

Israeli security officials note the increasing influence of Gulf states on Washington's policy, with Trump favoring a diplomatic resolution over prolonged military engagement. Senior researcher Danny Zitronovitch from the Institute for National Security Studies highlighted that Gulf countries prioritize stability above all, understanding the heavy price to be paid if Iranian infrastructure is attacked, as Iran would retaliate against Gulf states' infrastructure in turn.