Trump Reveals How US Attack on Iran Was Halted After Gulf Allies' Intervention

Former US President Donald Trump disclosed that a massive planned American military strike against Iran was halted following urgent appeals from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Tehran itself. Speaking aboard Air Force One during a return flight from New Jersey on August 3, 2026, Trump explained that the operation was fully prepared and ready to launch, describing it as the largest attack since World War II. However, the Gulf allies requested a pause, believing there was a chance to reach a diplomatic agreement.

Trump said negotiations were set to begin on Monday afternoon, focusing on the strategic Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program, which he referred to as "nuclear disarmament." He emphasized that while the US was ready to act at any moment, all parties, including Iran, preferred to pursue a deal to avoid unnecessary destruction and loss of life.

The former president acknowledged uncertainty about Tehran's sincerity, noting conflicting messages from Iranian officials. He also highlighted that Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince strongly favored a diplomatic resolution over military action, concerned about the potential regional fallout such as refugee crises.

Despite the military readiness, the decision to cancel the strike came after Iran and other Middle Eastern countries requested a pause, claiming preliminary agreement on key principles. Trump framed the emerging deal as involving immediate and full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and neutralizing the nuclear threat.

Iranian media portrayed the US decision as a retreat, criticizing Trump’s demands as excessive and his explanations as confusing. In Israel, military sources expressed no surprise at the repeated last-minute cancellations by Trump but remain on high alert, maintaining readiness for potential Iranian aggression. Israeli officials are wary of the US pullback but prepared to respond decisively if Iran attacks.

This development marks a critical moment in US-Iran relations, with diplomatic efforts underway to prevent escalation in the volatile Gulf region.