The United States had been expected to launch strikes on Iran on May 19, 2026.
Trump said countries from the Middle East informed him that important negotiations were underway which could eventually lead Iran to abandon its pursuit of nuclear weapons.
In a message posted on Truth Social, Trump said the request came from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
Trump emphasized that he had been told a deal was being prepared that the United States would accept, including guarantees that Iran would not possess weapons of mass destruction. However, he warned that if negotiations fail, U.S. forces are ready for war and capable of launching a major attack on Iran.
Iran has not publicly commented on Trump’s statements.
The conflict between the United States and Iran began on February 28, 2026, and has had significant consequences for the global economy after disrupting the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route through which various goods and nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply pass.
