Trump cancels Iran strikes after diplomatic, regional challenges
"It was really close. The military was in a position to do something really fast," a US official said, describing the high tension surrounding the potential operation.
Although the administration and several Middle Eastern countries anticipated an imminent strike following a Tuesday meeting, no order was ultimately issued.
Trump had initially reviewed and narrowed military options against Iranian targets but hesitated as obstacles emerged. One factor was the repositioning of US military assets toward the Caribbean and Asia, leaving the Middle East inadequately prepared. Officials noted that "the theater was not ready," limiting actionable options.
A significant influence came from a backchannel communication between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. On Wednesday morning, Araghchi reportedly assured Witkoff that Iran would cease killings and halt the scheduled execution of protesters.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reportedly advised Trump that Israel was unprepared for potential Iranian retaliation and that the proposed US operation lacked sufficient strength. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman similarly raised serious concerns about the potential impact on regional stability.
By Wednesday afternoon, US officials recognized that the strike order would not be issued.
Trump has repeatedly expressed support for Iranian protesters and strongly criticized Iranian authorities’ response to demonstrations that began on Dec. 28 in Tehran over economic conditions.
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