US President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States had a plan for a major military strike against Iran but decided not to authorize it after requests from several regional countries. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said he chose restraint, confirming reports published late last week about a Pentagon plan for broad attacks on targets in Iran.

The reported operation could have been the largest possible US military action so far in the ongoing war that began on February 28. Trump said approving the attack could have resulted in the deaths of possibly thousands of people inside Iran. Discussion of a possible US military response had intensified amid continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Trump said Iran's government must make the right decisions and agree not to pursue nuclear weapons. He also said Iran should refrain from seeking sole control over the Strait of Hormuz. His remarks indicate that, while Washington has considered military options, it is currently placing greater emphasis on diplomatic pressure and negotiations.