President Donald Trump said Qatar and Saudi Arabia urged him to delay planned attacks on Iran for two or three days as regional leaders continue pushing for a possible diplomatic breakthrough.
Speaking during remarks at a TrumpRx event, Trump said both Gulf nations asked for more time before any major military action against Iran moved forward.
According to Trump, the request came as officials believed negotiations may be getting closer to a deal involving Iran’s nuclear program.
“They think they are getting very close to making a deal,” Trump said while discussing the situation. “If we can do that where there’s no nuclear weapon, that’s what we want.”
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Trump suggested he is willing to consider a short delay if it creates a real chance of preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon without further escalation.
The comments come amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran after weeks of military pressure, regional instability and fears of a wider Middle East conflict.
Qatar and Saudi Arabia have both played important diplomatic roles in regional negotiations, with Gulf leaders seeking to prevent a broader war that could destabilize energy markets and security across the Middle East.
Trump has repeatedly said Iran cannot be allowed to develop or obtain a nuclear weapon, while also insisting that his administration remains open to a stronger agreement if Tehran is willing to accept serious limits.
Supporters of the president argued the comments show Trump is using pressure while still giving diplomacy a chance.
Critics, however, warned that the situation remains extremely dangerous and that even a short delay does not guarantee a long-term solution.
Iran has continued denying that it seeks nuclear weapons, while U.S. and allied officials remain concerned about Tehran’s nuclear activity and support for proxy groups across the region.
The president did not provide full details about the proposed delay or whether any final decision had been made regarding possible military action.
For now, the situation remains tense as regional leaders attempt to buy more time for diplomacy while the United States keeps pressure on Iran.
🚨 JUST IN: President Trump says Qatar and Saudi Arabia requested he delay his imminent attacks on Iran by “TWO OR THREE DAYS,” but hopes he can delay it “FOREVER”
“They think that they are getting very close to making a deal, and if we can do that where there’s no nuclear… pic.twitter.com/poF9rG2Nvv
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) May 18, 2026
