Trump reveals US prepared to strike Iran before last-minute pause

WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump said that the United States was just one hour away from launching a military strike against Iran before the operation was halted to allow time for ongoing negotiations.

Speaking during a visit to a ballroom construction site, Trump said U.S. naval forces had completed preparations and were ready to begin the attack when he received a call requesting a short delay because an agreement with Iran appeared close.

Trump said Iran had caused instability across the Middle East for decades and reiterated that the United States would not allow Tehran to obtain nuclear weapons.

He said Iran was eager to reach a deal and had returned to the negotiating table. According to Trump, the U.S. would wait only two or three more days before deciding whether further action was necessary.

The president warned that larger strikes could still be carried out if talks fail, but said he hoped diplomacy would prevent the need for military action.

Trump also claimed that if Iran were to acquire a nuclear weapon, it would pose a direct threat to Israel and the broader region.

He said leaders in Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Qatar had expressed optimism that negotiations with Iran would produce positive results.

Trump added that Xi Jinping had assured him that China was not supplying weapons to Iran.