Key facts
- The US has paused strikes on Iran for two consecutive nights.
- Top military officials advised Donald Trump to halt bombing operations against Iran.
- Diplomatic negotiations are ongoing to prevent a wider conflict.
- Iran has also paused its retaliatory operations against US allies.
- Concerns have been raised about dwindling US munitions stockpiles.
- Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to visit the White House to discuss the conflict.
The United States has halted strikes against Iran for a second consecutive night amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions. Top military officials reportedly advised President Donald Trump to cease bombing operations, citing dwindling munitions stockpiles and the limited effectiveness of the campaign. Iran has also stated it is pausing its retaliatory attacks against US allies.
President Trump is reportedly considering various diplomatic and military options in the nearly five-month-old conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing political pressure ahead of elections, is expected to visit the White House. Netanyahu has been a critic of US negotiations with Iran and has advocated for continued strikes.
Iranian officials confirmed that the US had stopped its attacks for the past two nights, and Tehran has reciprocated by halting its own retaliatory operations. However, an Iranian army spokesperson suggested the US was experiencing 'strategic decision-making fatigue' and lacked a clear strategy.
Discussions are underway between Iranian and Omani diplomats regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and gas transit. The US and the UK are also reportedly discussing plans for a coalition to protect shipping in the strait and clear mines. This comes amidst significant violence in the West Bank, where Israeli forces are conducting an operation following the deaths of several Palestinians and Israelis.