Trump backs away from new Iran strikes as Qatar brokers talks
Trump said the Iran war is "militarily effectively over" and the US is holding the status quo while pursuing diplomacy.
US President Donald Trump made a surprise announcement at the White House that the military phase of the conflict with Iran is essentially finished. Trump said Iran has been "decapitated" militarily but the US is not launching fresh strikes.
Trump said there is "positive momentum" in talks and a "good chance" the war could end. Qatar's prime minister visited Trump, and Qatari officials have presented proposals on Iran's nuclear programme.
The US sees "highly unlikely" prospects of resuming military action if negotiations progress and a strong agreement is reached. The US is continuing its naval blockade of Iranian ports and maintains thousands of troops in the region.
Why it mattersThis signals a major shift from Trump's threat of resumed bombardment and suggests the conflict may move toward negotiation instead of escalation.
AustraliaAny end to Middle East conflict reduces global uncertainty and may ease oil prices and shipping risks that affect Australian transport and energy costs.
Corroborated byThe Sydney Morning Herald
