The United States and Iran have temporarily halted their latest military strikes, creating a fresh opportunity for diplomatic efforts to end the growing conflict.
The pause followed nearly two weeks of repeated US airstrikes and Iranian retaliatory attacks. US President Donald Trump ordered a halt to further bombing, while Tehran also suspended its military response for the time being.
The development has raised hopes that Washington and Tehran could return to negotiations. However, officials on both sides have warned that the situation remains fragile and could deteriorate quickly if military action resumes.
US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said the decision was intended to provide more space for diplomacy. He indicated that Washington wanted negotiations to have a chance before considering further military escalation.
Reports from US media also suggested that concerns about the availability of missile-defence systems played a role in the decision. American officials have reportedly been assessing supplies of Patriot interceptors and other defensive weapons amid fears that a prolonged conflict could put additional pressure on US military resources.
The pause has also encouraged regional mediation. Pakistan and Qatar have reportedly increased communication between Washington and Tehran as they seek to help both sides reach an understanding.
Sources familiar with the diplomatic efforts said a joint proposal calls on the United States and Iran to return to positions held before July 9. The move could create conditions for the resumption of direct or indirect negotiations.
Iranian officials confirmed that messages were still being exchanged with Washington through intermediaries. Tehran has also continued discussions with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite the diplomatic activity, the conflict remains highly volatile. Fighting has spread beyond direct US-Iran confrontations, affecting regional shipping, military bases and Gulf states.
Iranian military officials have warned that the conflict could expand if American strikes restart. At the same time, Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed attacks on Saudi energy facilities following Saudi strikes against Houthi positions.
Saudi air defences reportedly intercepted ballistic missiles and a drone over Yanbu.
Another incident was reported in the Strait of Hormuz, where an oil tanker was said to have exploded after hitting a naval mine outside an Iranian-designated shipping route. Iranian authorities had not immediately confirmed the incident.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected claims that Tehran was responsible for the latest escalation between Yemen and Saudi Arabia. He also offered Iran’s assistance in facilitating dialogue between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia.
