Trump May Delay Major Iran Strike If Diplomacy Gains Ground

The reports say Trump alone holds the final authority to approve any large-scale attack on Iran's key infrastructure, with a possible decision expected around Tuesday evening as tensions remain extremely high.

American officials told U.S. media that if Trump believes a political settlement is genuinely taking shape, he could temporarily hold back, although some defense officials reportedly doubt another extension is likely.

Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey are continuing backchannel mediation efforts aimed at either securing a limited ceasefire or buying additional time to prevent a wider regional military escalation.

One senior U.S. official told Axios that the final decision remains entirely Trump's, while another source described him as the most hardline figure within his own administration on Iran.

Trump's internal negotiating team; including Vice President JD Vance, envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner reportedly believes Washington should still pursue a diplomatic opening if one remains possible.

At the same time, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and some regional and political allies are said to be pressing Trump not to agree to a ceasefire without major Iranian concessions.

The latest diplomatic push comes after Trump publicly warned that Iran could face severe attacks if no agreement is reached, while also saying a deal remains possible before his deadline.

Recent mediation proposals reportedly include discussion of a possible 45-day ceasefire, which could create space for broader negotiations on ending hostilities and reducing regional risks.

For now, the crisis appears to hinge on whether last-minute diplomacy can produce enough movement to convince Trump to delay military action, or whether Washington moves closer to a major confrontation with Iran.

MENAFN07042026000228011069ID1110951099