interceptors and other defensive weapons—are restraining plans for further escalation. The lull has revived hopes for negotiations after nearly two weeks of consecutive US bombardments.

The war began over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, derailing diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran, before expanding to attacks on US bases, regional shipping, and Gulf allies. US operations against Iran are currently "on a hold," according to a Pentagon source cited by CNN, even as President Trump threatened a "much higher level" of strikes. However, The New York Times reported that plans to escalate have been shelved partly due to shrinking weapons supplies.

Trump faces risks of a wider Middle East war, the alienation of Gulf allies, and further global economic shocks. Vice President JD Vance and top US General Dan Caine both raised concerns about escalation at a White House meeting. Caine reportedly told Trump the military could carry out the options available but warned of possible negative implications. Trump said he had not decided on returning to all-out operations, stating Iran faces a choice between a deal or strikes at a "much higher level." The Pentagon had presented a plan for a 14th night of strikes, but Trump declined to authorize it in favor of pushing for talks.

Meanwhile, fighting has spread to a new front. Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels struck Saudi Aramco sites, while a Greek-operated battery in Saudi Arabia downed missiles over Yanbu. Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they stopped four ships at the Strait of Hormuz, which remains the central flashpoint. Iran's foreign minister offered to broker talks between the Houthis and Riyadh, insisting "there is no military solution." (Bssnews)