Arab allies urge restraint from US and Iran as Trump demands deal on nuclear program

U.S. allies and partners in the Middle East again are urging restraint from both the United States and Iran as the Trump administration warns of a possible strike and builds up its military presence in the region. That is according to an Arab official, who spoke Friday on condition of anonymity to discuss private diplomatic discussions. The official says Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Oman and Qatar have been in touch with leaders in Washington and Tehran to make the case that escalation would cause massive destabilization throughout the region and affect energy markets. President Donald Trump recently shifted his rationale for possible military action from a response to the deadly crackdown on nationwide protests to a deterrent of Iran’s nuclear program.