Bitcoin Rebounds Near $77K After Trump Delays Iran Strike

Bitcoin (BTC) recovered toward the $77,000 level late on May 18 after US President Donald Trump announced he had paused a planned military strike on Iran following requests from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. The decision sparked renewed optimism across global financial markets and fueled a broader risk-on rally.

According to Trump’s Truth Social post, Gulf leaders urged the United States to delay military action to create room for diplomatic negotiations with Tehran. Trump emphasized that any potential agreement must ensure Iran does not obtain nuclear weapons. He also stated that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Daniel Caine would keep US military forces prepared in case talks fail.

The announcement quickly impacted crypto and traditional markets. Bitcoin climbed back above $77,000 after falling below the level earlier in the weekend amid fears of escalating conflict in the Middle East. The previous sell-off triggered nearly $580 million in long liquidations within just four hours as traders reacted to Trump’s warning that Iran’s “clock is ticking.”

Following the policy reversal, Nasdaq 100 futures surged from 28,740 to 28,980, while the S&P 500 gained 0.10% to move above 7,400. Spot gold also advanced 0.10% to $4,560, showing broad market relief rather than a move solely into safe-haven assets.

Despite the rebound, Bitcoin remains down roughly 2% over the past 24 hours. Investors are closely watching developments surrounding Iran’s response to the Gulf-backed negotiation framework, as it could determine whether the current crypto market recovery develops into a sustained rally or proves temporary.

Market analysts note that geopolitical tensions continue to drive crypto volatility, with Bitcoin increasingly reacting alongside traditional risk assets. Future price action will likely depend on further statements from Trump and any official response from Tehran.