US President Donald Trump announced early Monday morning, August 3, 2026, that a massive military strike planned against Iran had been called off at the explicit request of Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump further claimed that direct negotiations with the Islamic Republic of Iran would begin on Monday afternoon to seek a comprehensive agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme.
When asked by reporters what prompted the sudden cancellation of the planned military action, Trump stated:
“Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Iran asked me not to do it. We were virtually ready to go, and it was going to be a huge strike. Everything was lined up, but when allies ask you to call it off, you have to see what happens.”
Trump claimed that neighbouring Gulf nations requested the halt because they believe a diplomatic resolution is achievable:
“They believe a deal is around the corner, leading to a nuclear agreement. I call it the denuclearisation of Iran.”
Trump emphasised that the military option remains fully operational and ready for deployment at any time. “We are ready to act whenever we want, but I would prefer a deal. I am not looking to kill people because a strike like that would cost many lives, and we don’t want that,” he noted.
Trump highlighted Saudi Arabia’s reluctance to support immediate escalation as a major factor in halting the operation, citing Riyadh’s belief that an imminent agreement is within reach.
The US president claimed that the planned offensive would have been “the largest military strike since World War II” and described its potential outcome for Iran as “catastrophic.”
Trump confirmed that diplomatic talks were scheduled to begin on Monday afternoon, adding: “We will see if this is real or not. I would love to see it happen because many lives will be saved.” When asked whether a strict deadline existed for reaching an agreement, Trump indicated that he would monitor the negotiation process as it unfolds.