Writing on Truth Social on Saturday, Trump revealed that Iran and multiple Middle Eastern nations asked for time to conclude an arrangement that would immediately unblock the vital shipping lane and neutralise the perceived nuclear threat. While he did not name the specific nations, the announcement followed a discussion with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Trump noted that he agreed to call off the strike under the condition of a quick diplomatic resolution, adding that Israel backed this strategy.

Iran boosts preparedness

In response, Iran's acting Defence Minister, Brigadier General Majid Ebn Al-Reza, dismissed recent US threats as psychological warfare while emphasising that Tehran is taking them seriously by boosting its military readiness and deterrence power.

Concurrently, Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen stated that Israel will maintain its efforts to block any Iranian attempts to revive its nuclear ambitions or expand ballistic missile programs, independent of any prospective pact.

Diplomacy amid regional tensions

Saudi Arabia confirmed that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underscored the necessity of dialogue to de-escalate regional tensions during his conversation with Trump.

Trump also voiced strong confidence in US negotiators—including Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio—to successfully finalise a deal with Tehran.

The ongoing conflict has severely impacted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical corridor carrying roughly 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, thereby driving up energy costs. Additional worries have surfaced regarding security in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait following threats issued by Yemen's Houthi movement, alongside reported maritime incidents involving commercial vessels near the Omani coast.