Trump calls off planned attack on Iran, expects deals on Strait of Hormuz and nuclear program

President Donald Trump announced on August 2 that he canceled a planned large-scale military strike against Iran, citing requests from both Tehran and regional allies including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The decision pivots toward a diplomatic framework aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz for shipping and addressing Iran’s nuclear program. This is now the fourth time in 2026 that Trump has publicly called off military action against Iran. The previous cancellations came on May 18, June 11, and in late July, each time tied to some form of diplomatic negotiation. The brinkmanship playbook Trump made the announcement on Truth Social, framing the decision as a concession to allies rather than a retreat. The proposed deal would address two major pressure points: clearing the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly a fifth of global oil supply flows, and constraining Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Iran’s defense minister responded by saying the country remains “neither surprised nor passive” regarding the negotiations. The emerging diplomatic framework reportedly involves high-level negotiations that could include US Vice President JD Vance. No final agreement has been reported. Wh...