Trump Abandons Iran Attack Plans Amid Pressure from Allies
US President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that he has canceled plans for a 'massive attack' on Iran, citing pressure from his allies and Iran itself. However, Iranian state media has mocked Trump's decision, with no indication of a change in attitude from Tehran.
The cancellation comes after reports emerged that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had urged an escalation of the war during a phone conversation with Trump. Despite this, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi engaged in diplomatic talks with his Saudi counterpart and the Chief of Staff of the Pakistan Army on Sunday.
Oil prices fell sharply following Trump's announcement, with Brent crude dropping 5.6% to around $83 a barrel and US crude falling 5.5% to around $80 a barrel. A senior officer at the US Central Command delivered an email to troops earlier in the week, stating that they were seeking 'new, creative and unconventional ways' to pressure Iran.