Trump Delays Iran Strikes as Talks for Deal Continue

WASHINGTON: (News Desk) – President Donald Trump said Saturday that the United States and Israel have agreed to suspend plans for additional strikes on Iran, but only if a deal to end the ongoing conflict is reached quickly.

Tensions had risen after Trump warned that the US could launch major attacks against Iran, including possible strikes on energy facilities. He said Washington was prepared for military action but decided to delay further operations following requests from Iran and several Middle Eastern countries.

In a statement shared on his Truth Social platform, Trump said the pause would remain in place while efforts continued toward a potential agreement. He emphasized that any deal must include the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and guarantees to end concerns over Iran’s nuclear program.

Trump added that Israel had agreed to the same approach, urging negotiators to work toward a resolution.

The latest development comes after more than five months of conflict that began on February 28, when the US and Israel launched strikes on Tehran. Despite previous ceasefire efforts, fighting resumed in recent weeks, with both sides exchanging attacks.

The renewed tensions have affected global energy markets, pushing oil prices higher after earlier declines during a temporary ceasefire period. The situation also comes months before the US midterm elections, creating additional political pressure for the Trump administration.

Reports said US officials had been considering coordinated strikes with Israel, including possible attacks on Iranian oil facilities and power infrastructure. However, Trump said he backed away from those plans following appeals from Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia.

The conflict has also raised security concerns across the Middle East. Several US embassies advised citizens to remain alert over possible escalation and prepare for potential travel disruptions.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran had suffered significant damage to its defenses and appeared more open to discussions on nuclear issues and the Strait of Hormuz, though he warned Tehran still had the ability to retaliate.

Meanwhile, maritime tensions continued, with reports of attacks on vessels in regional waters. A drone strike hit a US-owned gas vessel in an Egyptian port, while a maritime agency reported an unidentified projectile had struck a tanker near Oman.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a key global shipping route, and reduced traffic through the waterway has raised concerns about international oil supplies and trade.