US Delays Planned Strikes on Iran After Gulf Leaders' Request

Trump Warns of Major Attack if Diplomacy Fails

US President Donald Trump has postponed a planned military strike on Iran, originally expected on Tuesday, following requests from leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates for more time to pursue diplomatic negotiations. 

Trump announced the decision via a post on Truth Social, stating that serious talks were underway and that a mutually acceptable deal remained possible. He instructed Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and military leadership, including Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Dan Caine, to stand down for the time being. 

However, the US President issued a clear warning: if negotiations collapse, American forces are prepared to launch a large-scale operation. The core demand, he reiterated, is that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons. 

Gulf Leaders Seek Breathing Room

Leaders from key Gulf nations urged the delay to prevent immediate escalation and allow space for talks. The move comes amid heightened regional tensions, with diplomats working behind the scenes on possible arrangements involving Iran's nuclear programme and broader security concerns.

Sources familiar with the discussions indicated that while indirect channels remain active, differences persist over the sequencing of any agreement—particularly whether to first halt the current conflict before addressing wider issues. Pakistani officials, citing US media reports, noted that Washington prefers announcing comprehensive deals together, while Tehran is pushing for a separate arrangement to end hostilities.

Maritime Disruptions Hit Global Supplies

Tensions in the Gulf have already disrupted critical shipping lanes. Nearly 1,500 commercial vessels are reportedly stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, with over 20,000 sailors aboard. Defence experts have highlighted risks of missile or drone attacks, noting the unpredictable nature of potential Iranian targeting.

In India, the fallout was felt immediately at fuel pumps. Petrol and diesel prices rose by around 0.9 rupees per litre on Tuesday — the second hike in a week. In Delhi, petrol now costs 98.64 rupees a litre and diesel 91.58 rupees, according to PTI reports. Analysts link the increase directly to fears over supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz.

Regional Flashpoints Multiply

Parallel developments have added to the volatility. Saudi Arabia reported intercepting three drones approaching from Iraq’s direction, prompting condemnation from Kuwait and Qatar as a violation of sovereignty. 

In Tehran, hundreds of newly married couples held a car rally at Azadi Square, blending wedding celebrations with public displays of support for the Iranian military and government. Videos circulating on social media also showed young Iranian women training with AK-47 rifles, signalling heightened domestic preparedness.

Israeli forces continued operations in the region, including actions against aid ships bound for Gaza and reported strikes in Lebanon. US cargo aircraft carrying weapons have reportedly landed in Israel, while Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have discussed possible military options.

Oil Markets React to Pause

Global oil prices eased slightly following Trump’s announcement. US crude futures fell over 2% in early Asian trading, with the July West Texas Intermediate contract dropping to around $102 per barrel as immediate fears of supply shocks receded.

Separately, the US extended a sanctions waiver for 30 days, allowing certain energy-vulnerable countries to purchase Russian seaborne oil amid the disruptions. Treasury officials described the step as a temporary measure to stabilise supplies. 

Domestic US Debate on War Powers

In Washington, political oversight is also sharpening. The US Senate is set to vote again on a War Powers Resolution aimed at limiting presidential authority for action against Iran. Senator Lindsey Graham emphasised that any final deal must receive Congressional approval, outlining key conditions including zero uranium enrichment by Iran, control over its enriched stockpile, free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and an end to support for regional proxies.

Iran’s embassy in Ghana issued a cryptic response to Trump’s post, while Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel criticised US fuel restrictions on his country as “immoral, illegal and criminal.”

What Lies Ahead

Diplomats and military observers are watching closely to see whether the brief pause leads to tangible progress or merely delays confrontation. Trump has stressed that time is running out for Iran, warning of “serious consequences” without a deal. 

For now, the region remains on edge, with global energy markets, shipping routes, and fuel prices reflecting the uncertainty. Further updates are expected in the coming hours as negotiations continue.