CNN reports that U.S. Central Command prepared a two-week intensive bombing campaign targeting Iranian missile sites, but President Trump canceled the operation after a call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and at the request of regional countries. Trump cited progress in the diplomatic process.
CNN reported Sunday that U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) had prepared a two-week intensive bombing campaign targeting Iranian missile sites, but President Donald Trump canceled the operation after a phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and following requests from regional countries to allow negotiations. Trump stated that progress is being made in the diplomatic process.
The Zioneer earlier today (Sun 05:10 Jerusalem) reported that Trump announced the cancellation of a planned military strike, citing a framework deal that includes the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to the Iranian nuclear threat. Trump said the United States was 'braced, ready and prepared' with force not seen since World War II, but agreed to a delay after Iran and other states requested it. Trump also stated that Israel joins the commitment.
The Zioneer reported on Saturday (03:28 Jerusalem) that CENTCOM was preparing for a two-week heavy bombing campaign. On Thursday (01:47 Jerusalem), senior White House officials briefed reporters that the strike plan was on Trump's desk, and that Trump was weighing proposals from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for economic pressure. Background reports from The Zioneer also note that the military had repeatedly proposed a ground operation to seize the Strait of Hormuz, which Trump declined each time.
The cancellation marks a significant shift from military preparations to diplomacy, but the framework deal's details remain to be finalized. It is unclear whether Iran will comply with the conditions for opening the Strait of Hormuz and ending its nuclear threat.
13 developments
- DevelopingTrump says he postponed planned Iran strikes at mediators' request
- DevelopingAnalysis: Trump delays Iran strike in last-ditch Saudi push
- StrongOvernight: Qatar and Pakistan reportedly pressed Trump to halt Iran strike
- StrongQatar, Pakistan, UAE leaders convinced Trump to call off Iran strike plan, Politico reports
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