politics
January 17, 2026
Trump was prepared to strike Iran but changed decision due to multiple objections
The sources told The Wall Street Journal that Arab countries explained to Washington the timing for any potential strikes was inappropriate, citing Iran’s instability, the protests largely having been suppressed and unclear opposition leadership in case of regime change
TL;DR
- President Trump ordered the Pentagon on January 13 to prepare a strike on Iran.
- Advisors cited insufficient military resources and concerns about overthrowing the Iranian regime.
- Arab countries warned that the timing was inappropriate due to Iran's instability and lack of clear opposition leadership.
- Arab officials also warned of potential Iranian retaliation against US bases in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
- Trump spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who requested more US assistance.
- Trump later stated his decision not to strike was his own, partly influenced by Iran canceling over 800 hangings.