Trump 'cancels' Iran strikes as rapid deal aims to reopen Hormuz, curb nuclear threat

US President Donald Trump on Sunday claimed that the United States had been "locked and loaded" with military force against Iran at levels "not seen since World War II" but said he decided to call off the planned attack after Tehran and several Middle Eastern countries urged to hold off and pushed to make a deal.In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Iran had requested that Washington "hold off any attack" after the broad parameters of an agreement had been reached. "The USA is locked and loaded and ready to go against the Islamic Republic of Iran, at levels of Military Terror, Strength, and Power not seen since World War II," Trump wrote.Despite the military preparations, Trump said he had agreed to cancel the attack after being approached by Iran and other regional countries."Based on this request, I have agreed... to cancel the attack, subject to being able to rapidly make a DEAL," he added.According to Trump, the proposed agreement would include the "immediate, complete, and total" reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and "an end to Iran's nuclear threat."He also claimed that Israel had backed the decision. "The Country of Israel joins me in this commitment," Trump said, urging all parties to finalise the agreement. "Get to work, everybody, and get it DONE," he added.Iranian authorities had not immediately commented on Trump's claims.This came after reports swirled that the US and Israel were planning a potential bombing campaign targeting Iran's energy infrastructure, with strikes possibly taking place over the weekend. According to CBS News, citing multiple US sources, officials discussed wrapping up the operation before financial markets open on Monday amid concerns over the potential impact of the strikes on the US and global economy.Catch the latest World News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.