Web Desk: Iran announced on Sunday that it has suspended its retaliatory military operations after the United States halted airstrikes on Iranian targets for two consecutive nights, raising hopes of renewed diplomatic engagement amid months of escalating tensions.
Iranian Army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia said Tehran’s military strategy had been based solely on responding to US attacks. “Since the Americans have stopped their strikes over the past two nights, we have also suspended our retaliatory operations,” he stated.
The conflict, now approaching its fifth month, has expanded beyond the Strait of Hormuz to include attacks on US military facilities, commercial shipping, and regional allies, heightening security concerns across the Middle East.
According to US media reports, Washington’s decision to pause operations may be linked to concerns over declining stocks of Patriot missile interceptors and other key defence systems. CNN reported that US military operations are currently on hold, while The New York Times said plans for further escalation have been delayed due to limited military resources and fears of a wider regional conflict.
Despite the temporary pause, US President Donald Trump warned that Iran could still face strikes “at a much higher level” if diplomatic efforts fail. He also confirmed that discussions with Tehran remain ongoing.
Iran, however, cautioned that any renewed US military action would trigger a broader regional response. The warning comes ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s scheduled visit to Washington later this week.
Meanwhile, regional tensions remain high. Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed responsibility for attacks on Saudi oil facilities and the downing of a Saudi drone, while Iran reiterated that dialogue, not military action, is the only path to lasting stability.
Tehran also confirmed progress in talks with Oman on developing joint mechanisms for managing shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime trade routes.
