Iran halts strikes as Trump gives space to talks

Iran and the United States have paused their recent exchange of missile strikes, offering a temporary reprieve to the critical Gulf shipping lanes and the global oil industry. This de-escalation follows nearly five months of conflict.

Iran's army spokesman, Mohammad Akraminia, announced that the country had halted its retaliatory operations against Washington's allies in the Middle East. He stated, "Since… our strategy has essentially been retaliatory, we have also halted our retaliatory operations." This move came after two consecutive nights without US bombing, a break from the previous 13-day streak of US strikes.

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These attacks continued until two nights ago, but over the past two nights the Americans have stopped their attacks. Since… our strategy has essentially been retaliatory, we have also halted our retaliatory operations.

US Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, told "Fox News Sunday" that President Trump was "giving talks some space." While acknowledging that US forces remained prepared, Waltz suggested that the pause was intended to allow diplomatic efforts a chance to progress. The recent lull has rekindled hopes for a return to negotiations between the two nations.

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I want to be crystal clear. The US military, and I’ve verified this every which way, has everything that it needs to conduct this campaign as effectively as it needs to be.

However, some reports suggested the pause might also be influenced by concerns over US stockpiles of defensive weapons, such as Patriot interceptors. Waltz dismissed these claims in a separate interview, insisting that the US military possessed all necessary resources for the campaign. The conflict had previously expanded beyond the Strait of Hormuz, impacting regional shipping and US bases.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, due to meet with President Trump, is expected to advocate for a firm stance against Iran, particularly regarding its nuclear program. Netanyahu stated, "If he can do so without returning to intense military fighting, that’s fine. Why not? But one way or the other, they have to end their nuclear programme, and with a deal or without a deal, that has to come to an end."

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If he can do so without returning to intense military fighting, that’s fine. Why not? But one way or the other, they have to end their nuclear programme, and with a deal or without a deal, that has to come to an end.