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Why Did Trump Postpone the Attack on Iran?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

Following a review of the news summary, it has been reported that US President Donald Trump has announced the postponement of a potential military strike on Iran. The decision to halt the attack came after an agreement was reportedly reached, influenced by appeals from Iran and other Middle Eastern countries. The agreement includes two main conditions: the operation of the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of Iran’s nuclear threat. Kathmandu, 17 Shrawan (Nepali date). President Trump declared on Sunday that the anticipated military strike against Iran has been suspended for the time being. He shared on the social media platform Truth Social that a new framework for an agreement had been established, leading to the cancellation of the attack. Previously, Trump had warned of a significant military operation against Iran. However, the abrupt decision to halt the attack was reportedly prompted by diplomatic efforts from influential Middle Eastern nations, which surprised many Nepalis.

According to the American news website Axios, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed deep concerns about the possible military action against Iran during a phone call with Trump, appealing for a reduction in regional tensions. Diplomatic initiatives to ease tensions between the US and Iran were also underway involving Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Turkey, and Pakistan. On Saturday, Qatari mediators held separate meetings with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Trump’s special envoy Steve Wittkof, and Omani officials, engaging in serious discussions over a potential agreement regarding the resumption of operations in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump’s Claim: Urged by Iran and Middle Eastern Countries
Trump stated on Truth Social that he decided to call off the attack after Iran and other Middle Eastern nations requested it. “The United States possesses the greatest military power since World War II and was fully prepared to take action against Iran,” he wrote. “However, once the framework of the agreement was prepared, Iran and other countries urged to stop the attack.”

Core Elements of the Proposed Agreement
According to Trump, the proposed agreement revolves around two main conditions:
1. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global trade, must be fully reopened without obstructions.
2. The permanent removal of Iran’s nuclear threat.
Trump wrote, “Considering the future of the world and Iran’s stability and prosperity, I have decided to cancel the attack upon reaching consensus on the agreement.” He also mentioned that Israel is aligned with the US on this decision and has directed all parties to quickly conclude the agreement.

Timeline Leading to Trump’s Decision
Al Jazeera outlined the timeline of Trump’s threats and subsequent decision to halt the attack:

  • July 28: US and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu met at the White House for a team discussion.
  • July 29: Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman discussed the possibility of war and potential regional crises with Trump and the Vice President in Washington.
  • July 31: During a cabinet meeting at Camp David, Trump hinted at a “very tough” strike on Iran.
  • Morning of August 1: Trump posted images of fighter jets on Truth Social.
  • Evening of August 1: Saudi Crown Prince warned Trump that Iran might retaliate with attacks on energy sources in the Gulf region.
  • Night of August 1: Trump announced on Truth Social the cancellation of the attack, stating that Iran and regional countries had agreed on a deal and requested to halt the aggression.

High Risk Remains
According to Ross Harrison from the Middle East Institute, Iran tends to distance itself from negotiations while threatening attacks, and history shows that under such circumstances, tensions intensify. He remarked, “If talks cannot continue, the situation between the two sides could spiral out of control.”

Amid heightened tensions with the US, Iran has accelerated its diplomatic efforts. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has engaged in talks with counterparts from Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia to discuss the risks stemming from potential escalations. Tehran reiterated its readiness to respond firmly to protect its sovereignty and national security against any US military action. The Foreign Ministry accused the US of violating regulations in the Strait of Hormuz and alleged it was disguising military activities through commercial shipping.

Harrison from the Middle East Institute emphasized that the risk of war remains high due to Trump’s lack of a clear strategy. According to him, Iran appears committed only when engaged in diplomatic dialogue, and the cancellation of the attack was partly due to the risk of the conflict escalating further. However, he noted that tensions will not be fully resolved until a comprehensive agreement, such as a nuclear deal, is achieved.

(With contributions from agencies and international news sources)