U.S. President Donald Trump ordered that no new military strikes be launched against Iran. Axios reported, citing two unnamed officials, that the move aims to create space for diplomacy after two weeks of heavy military activity.
Over the previous 13 days, U.S. forces struck Iranian targets on a daily basis. The sources said Trump believed the current military pressure was sufficient and saw no need to sustain this pace without a bigger operation. However, it was noted that the Pentagon has kept broader operation plans ready and could launch new strikes very quickly if needed.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said the U.S. continues to keep military options on the table and that operations capable of 'destroying everything Iran has' are possible. However, noting that 'the smarter strategy' is to reach an agreement, he added: 'We are currently talking with the Iranians. I think they are getting more serious every day. We are prepared for all eventualities, but we are in negotiations.'
The development came just hours after an Omani delegation arrived in Tehran for talks on an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Axios reported that the discussions are progressing positively and could yield an accord by the weekend. Any deal would require Trump's approval to become effective.