US President Donald Trump said he has delayed a major US military attack on Iran that was scheduled for Tuesday. He suggested that new diplomatic efforts could help avoid a larger war in the region.

Trump spoke to reporters at the White House on Monday evening. He said he paused the operation after receiving urgent requests from Gulf leaders and a new peace proposal from Tehran.

The announcement surprised many because the White House had not publicly indicated that it planned to restart military action after the fragile six-week ceasefire.

Gulf Leaders Asked Trump to Delay Attack

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates urged him to postpone the strike. “I have been asked by the leaders of several Gulf countries to hold off on our planned Military attack of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which was scheduled for tomorrow, because they think they are close to making a deal,” Trump wrote.

He added that regional allies believe they can reach an agreement that is “very acceptable to the United States of America, as well as all Countries in the Middle East, and beyond.”

Trump Optimistic About Nuclear Deal

Later, Trump said he believes both sides may still reach a long-term agreement. “There seems to be a very good chance that they can work something out,” Trump told reporters.

He said the United States mainly wants to stop Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. “The United States would be probably satisfied if it could reach an agreement with Iran that prevents Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. If we can do that without bombing the hell out of them, I would be very happy,” he continued.

Pakistan Helps Mediate Talks

The diplomatic breakthrough followed intense behind-the-scenes talks. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that Tehran sent its official position to Washington through Pakistan.

Pakistan has acted as a key mediator since hosting the first round of peace talks.

US Military Remains on Alert

Despite the pause, Trump warned that the US military remains ready to attack if negotiations fail. The tensions have shaken global markets. Brent crude prices climbed to $112 per barrel because traders fear disruption in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump said the Pentagon remains fully prepared for military action.

“I have further instructed military leaders to be prepared to go forward with a full, large-scale assault of Iran, on a moment’s notice, in the event that an acceptable Deal is not reached,” Trump asserted.