Trump weighs next move in Iran war as Tehran threatens new weapons
President Donald Trump has paused planned U.S. military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen to prioritize diplomatic efforts during the United Nations General Assembly. Despite pressure from Saudi Arabia, the administration remains cautious about the effectiveness of limited bombing campaigns.
Why it matters
The decision highlights the ongoing tension between U.S. military interventionism and diplomatic strategy in the Middle East.
President Donald Trump has reportedly held off on planned U.S. military airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen over the weekend.
"We're in constant communication with them," Trump told Fox News in an exclusive phone call Sunday morning. "They don't want to fight us."
Trump had ordered the Pentagon to prepare strikes following a Thursday phone call from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who implored him for assistance.
By midday Sunday — with target lists approved and warplanes actively being loaded with munitions — the president called off the operation to give time for diplomacy amid this week's United Nations General Assembly .
Most of the president's inner circle fiercely opposed joining the Saudi-led fight against the Houthis, according to The New York Times.
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