Trump claims Israel supported halting Iran strikes, says all parties must 'get to work' on deal

What Happened

On Saturday night, US President Donald Trump claimed in a Truth Social post that he had called off a massive military attack against Iran, stating that the US was 'locked and loaded' at levels of 'Military Terror, Strength, and Power not seen since World War II.' Trump said Iran and other Middle Eastern countries had asked him to hold off, as 'the perimeters of a deal has been agreed to.' He conditioned the cancellation on rapidly making a deal that includes the complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to Iran’s nuclear threat. Earlier Saturday, two Israeli sources told The Jerusalem Post that Israel had raised its alert level amid assessments Trump was close to ordering military strikes on Iran, potentially larger than previous operations. Israeli officials said they were on high alert awaiting the president’s final decision. Axios separately reported that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman asked Trump to reconsider large military strikes during a phone call on Saturday.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The episode highlights a high-risk brinkmanship between the US and Iran, with Trump's rhetoric suggesting imminent large-scale military action comparable to WWII. The involvement of Israel and Saudi Arabia—key regional players—indicates broader geopolitical stakes. A potential deal could reshape Iran's nuclear ambitions and Strait of Hormuz security, but the veracity of Trump's claims remains unverified, and the situation underscores the fragility of US-Iran relations under maximum pressure.

Watch For

Monitor official statements from Tehran regarding any deal or request to the US. Watch for any follow-up from the White House or Pentagon on the status of military planning. Israel's alert level adjustments and Saudi diplomatic engagement will be key indicators of whether negotiations proceed or military tensions re-escalate. The IAEA may comment on Iran's nuclear compliance if a deal materializes.