President Donald Trump said late Saturday, August 1, that the United States would hold off on a fresh attack on Iran as long as a deal could be reached quickly to halt Iran's nuclear ambitions and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The statement came amid heightened tensions in the region.
Speaking to reporters, Trump emphasized his preference for a diplomatic solution, saying, "We're not looking to hurt Iran, we're looking to make a deal." He did not specify a deadline for negotiations but indicated that the pause was conditional on swift progress.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil shipments, has been a flashpoint in recent weeks. Iran has previously threatened to close it in response to US sanctions and military pressure. The US has maintained a naval presence in the region to ensure freedom of navigation.
Iranian officials have not yet publicly responded to Trump's latest remarks. International observers have called for de-escalation, with the UN urging both sides to resume dialogue. The situation remains fluid as of August 2, 2026.
