US Halts Major Iran Attack After Regional Pressure and Diplomatic Talks

Senior US officials revealed that President Donald Trump came close to launching a large-scale military strike against Iran but withdrew just one day before the planned operation. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) had prepared an extensive plan targeting Iran's energy and infrastructure facilities, with Israel expected to participate. The plan emerged shortly after a meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Trump, amid stalled negotiations and a recent Iranian surprise attack on a US base in Jordan.

Israeli officials reportedly told the US that any strike must significantly damage Iran’s economic and regime targets to be worthwhile. On Friday, Trump publicly hinted at imminent military action. However, ongoing negotiations involving the US, Iran, Oman, and Qatar focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route. Qatar requested an additional 24 hours for talks, claiming to have secured Iranian agreement.

Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey exerted pressure on Trump to avoid military escalation. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman warned that an attack could trigger widespread regional conflict and severe damage to Gulf oil facilities. Following this, Trump announced the cancellation of the strike.

Diplomatic efforts continue to finalize a deal that would include a ceasefire, a 60-day reopening of the Strait of Hormuz without tolls, new shipping lanes, and renewed US-Iran negotiations based on a memorandum of understanding. Despite progress, Iran has yet to publicly confirm its acceptance of the agreement.