Trump says he's called off Iran strike at request of Gulf allies
President Trump announced he has called off a planned military strike on Iran at the request of Gulf allies, citing ongoing negotiations. He expressed hope that a deal could be reached without military action, although he has previously set deadlines for Iran that he later retracted. The situation remains tense, with Iran's actions in the region continuing to provoke concern among U.S. allies.
- ▪Trump stated he was holding off on a military strike due to serious negotiations with Iran.
- ▪Gulf allies, including leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, requested the delay for two to three days.
- ▪The U.S. military was instructed to be prepared for a large-scale assault if an acceptable deal is not reached.
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World Trump says he's called off Iran strike at request of Gulf allies May 19, 20261:27 AM ET By The Associated Press Bakhtiari nomads, wearing traditional dress, hold their guns during a pro-government gathering near the residence where former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, shown on a banner, was killed in U.S. and Israeli strikes on Feb. 28, in Tehran, Iran, Monday, May 18, 2026. Vahid Salemi/AP hide caption toggle caption Vahid Salemi/AP WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump said he is holding off on a military strike on Iran planned for Tuesday because "serious negotiations" are underway to end the war. "There seems to be a very good chance that they can work something out.
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