US President Donald Trump has cancelled scheduled bombings against Iran, claiming that discussions with Tehran have reached the highest level of approval.
In a post on his Truth Social network Thursday evening, Trump said: "Based on the fact that discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran have been brought to the highest level of Iranian leadership and approved, I have… cancelled the scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran this evening."
He added: "Time and place of the signing to be announced shortly."
The announcement came just hours after reports suggested the US military was preparing for potential strikes on Iranian nuclear or military targets. Tensions between the two countries had escalated in recent weeks over Iran's advancing uranium enrichment program and its support for proxy groups in the Middle East.
Trump didn't provide details on what a potential deal would include. But his language — referencing "discussions" and a "signing" — suggests direct talks have taken place between US and Iranian officials, something the administration had previously denied.
The cancellation marks a sharp reversal from the Trump administration's usual强硬 posture toward Iran. In 2020, Trump ordered the drone strike that killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. His administration also pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in 2018.
Since then, Iran has dramatically expanded its nuclear program, enriching uranium to 60% purity — close to weapons-grade levels. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has repeatedly warned that Iran is the only non-nuclear-weapon state enriching uranium to that level.
Analysts say any new deal would likely require Iran to cap its enrichment and allow international inspections in exchange for sanctions relief. But the details remain unclear.
Trump's post didn't mention any conditions or deadlines. It also didn't clarify whether the cancelled strikes were a bluff or a genuine military option that was ready to be executed.
The development comes as Trump faces domestic pressure over his foreign policy record and as he gears up for the 2026 midterm elections. A diplomatic breakthrough with Iran could boost his standing with voters who are weary of overseas military entanglements.
Iran's government hasn't yet officially responded to Trump's announcement. But state media outlets reported the news without immediate comment.
The United Nations and European allies have long pushed for a return to negotiations. Whether this sudden shift leads to a lasting agreement — or collapses like previous attempts — isn't yet clear.