Trump ‘cancels scheduled strikes’ against Iran

President Donald Trump says he has cancelled planned strikes and bombings against Iran after discussions were allegedly approved by the “highest level” of the Iranian leadership. There has been no confirmation from Iran.

Earlier, he has warned the US will be hitting Iran “very hard” tonight, adding that Washington will take over Iran’s Kharg ⁠island and ⁠other oil ⁠infrastructure points.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has condemned the US strikes on the country, saying that it has rendered the ceasefire “practically meaningless”.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) launched retaliatory strikes on US forces in the region, including in Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan, according to Iranian news reports. Iran’s military also ordered the complete closure of the Strait of Hormuz to all vessels.

Trump says deal signing could take place this weekend in Europe

Continuing his remarks in the White House, the US president said the signing of a deal could take place somewhere in Europe as soon as this weekend.

Trump said he would not be able to attend, but VP JD Vance would be there.

Qatar says emir and Trump spoke about the deal

Qatar’s emir and Trump spoke about the deal and Trump “affirmed that the understandings reached had the approval of all concerned parties”, the Qatari emir’s office says.

“During the call, the two leaders discussed the close strategic relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them, in addition to the latest regional and international developments, particularly those related to diplomatic efforts for de-escalation in the region,” the statement said.

It added that Qatar welcomes the efforts made to reach a deal and supports “everything that would consolidate regional and international security and stability, and enhance opportunities for peace and cooperation among the countries of the region”.

World Opinion + Agencies