US President Donald Trump said he prefers a diplomatic agreement with Iran over military conflict amid continuing tensions in the Middle East. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on August 3, 2026, Trump said he wanted to make a deal and did not want people to be killed. He said mediated talks with Iran were expected to begin Monday.

Trump declined to set a deadline for the negotiations, saying the United States was prepared to act whenever necessary but that an agreement remained his preference. He argued that talks were more effective than war and could avoid unnecessary loss of life. Trump also claimed the United States had been prepared for a major military operation that could have been among the largest attacks since World War II, with severe consequences for Iran.

According to Trump, the potential operation was temporarily suspended after Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Iran indicated a possibility of talks. He said a possible agreement would focus on fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz and making progress on Iran's nuclear program. The White House Rapid Response account posted video of his remarks, highlighting his preference for a deal while maintaining readiness for military action.