Washington halts planned Iran strike after Gulf appeals
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Former U.S. President Donald Trump said he canceled a large-scale military strike on Iran that had been scheduled for Tuesday, May 19, after leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates asked him to delay the operation for several days. Trump disclosed the previously unknown plan in a Truth Social post Monday evening, stating he had ordered senior Pentagon leaders not to proceed with the attack. Speaking later at the White House, he characterized the operation as a "very major" assault and said U.S. forces remain prepared to launch a large-scale attack on short notice if diplomatic efforts fail.
More context
Timeline
- Monday evening Trump posts on Truth Social
- Monday evening reveals scheduled Iran strike publicly
- Monday evening Gulf leaders request short delay
- Monday evening Trump orders Pentagon to stand down
- Tuesday planned large-scale Iran attack postponed
- Later Trump confirms scale of contemplated assault
- Later Trump warns forces remain on high alert
Why it matters
The U.S. was on the brink of a major military assault. This could have escalated tensions, potentially affecting global oil prices and the economy. Keep an eye on how this unfolds.
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
