Daijiworld Media Network – Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Aug 6: US President Donald Trump on Wednesday claimed that the United States was prepared to launch its "biggest attack since World War II" against Iran but decided to halt the operation after Tehran requested negotiations.

Speaking at an event in Las Vegas, Trump said Iran had once again sought talks and insisted that the Islamic Republic must reach an agreement to end the conflict between the two countries, which has continued for more than five months.

Trump said Iran had been significantly weakened by US military action and reiterated that Tehran would not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.

"We were set for the biggest attack since World War II, and they called me and said, 'Please don't do it. Let's talk,'" Trump said, adding that discussions were now underway.

He also compared the situation with Iran to US actions in Venezuela, saying Washington was applying similar pressure while expressing his preference for a diplomatic solution.

"I would rather make a deal because I do not want to kill people," Trump said.

The remarks came as Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said that a proposed agreement with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz had reached the final stages of drafting. He said a joint statement would be issued if the process was not obstructed by other parties.

According to reports, the proposed deal could allow reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy route, but it would require final approval from Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.

The agreement could also create conditions for renewed discussions between Iran and the US over Tehran's nuclear programme.

The Strait of Hormuz has remained a key concern for global energy markets since the conflict began, with disruptions causing oil prices to rise. Brent crude prices recently eased but remained around USD 80 per barrel amid continued uncertainty.