U.S. President Donald Trump said he prefers reaching an agreement with Iran rather than continuing military confrontation, saying he wants to avoid further deaths as diplomatic efforts intensify over tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump said preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons remains a key U.S. objective, while warning that Washington had prepared for what he described as a major military response if diplomacy fails.
“I’d rather make a deal because I don’t want to kill people,” Trump said, adding that he believes an agreement remains possible despite Tehran’s repeated public denials that direct negotiations with Washington are underway.
The comments came as regional diplomatic efforts increased amid concerns that further military escalation could threaten energy infrastructure and international shipping routes.
According to Reuters, citing five sources familiar with the matter, Iran has warned Gulf countries that it could retaliate against regional energy facilities and U.S. targets if Washington launches new attacks.
The report said Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi contacted officials in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey and Pakistan, urging them to encourage Trump to avoid military action and return to diplomacy.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy routes, has become a central focus of the dispute. Any disruption to shipping through the waterway could affect global oil supplies and international markets.
Iran and Oman have also been involved in discussions over possible maritime arrangements in the strait, with Tehran seeking a greater role in regulating shipping traffic through the strategic waterway.
Reuters reported that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had urged Trump to delay further military action and allow diplomatic efforts to continue. Gulf countries have expressed concern that a wider conflict could threaten regional security and energy infrastructure.
Iran has warned that any new U.S. strikes could trigger retaliation against American positions and energy facilities in the region. An Iranian official warned that renewed conflict could turn the Middle East into “a ball of fire.”
While Washington and Tehran remain deeply divided over Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions and regional influence, recent diplomatic contacts suggest both sides are facing pressure to prevent a broader confrontation.
