Kathmandu— President Donald Trump declared Monday that newly planned talks between Washington and Tehran are the “last chance” for Iran to forge a deal and avoid an escalation of U.S. strikes, emphasizing that diplomacy must address both the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and denuclearization. The decision follows intense pressure from Gulf allies who urged restraint.

Gulf Allies Urge Restraint

President Trump announced he decided to hold off on ordering American forces to carry out new massive strikes against Iran at the urging of key Gulf leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The president said a plan was in place for U.S. forces to execute “the biggest attack since World War II” but scrapped it after hearing from these leaders and unnamed Iranian officials.

Critics Question Trump's Approach

Critics argue that President Trump’s hesitation reflects an understanding within the administration that military might alone may not be enough to compel Iran to back down. Sen. Mark Kelly, a Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, described Trump’s approach as erratic and suggested he is trying to reset the situation.

Impact on Midterm Elections

The conflict with Iran has raised concerns among Republicans about its impact on November’s midterm elections. About two-thirds of U.S. adults say the war with Iran has not been worthwhile, according to recent polling from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.