US Suspends Iran Strikes Amid Stockpile Concerns as Diplomatic Hopes Re-Emerge

The United States has temporarily halted its air campaign against Iran, with reports suggesting concerns over declining weapons stockpiles and the growing risk of a wider regional conflict are influencing Washington’s strategy.

Iran passed another night without US airstrikes on Sunday after nearly two weeks of sustained nightly bombardments, raising fresh hopes that diplomatic negotiations could resume.

According to CNN, citing an unnamed Pentagon official, military operations against Iran are currently “on a hold,” even though President Donald Trump recently warned Tehran that it could face attacks at a “much higher level.”

The New York Times, citing two sources familiar with the discussions, reported that proposals to expand the military campaign were put on hold partly because of concerns over dwindling supplies of Patriot missile interceptors and other key defence systems.

The report also said the administration is carefully considering the possibility of a broader Middle East war, deteriorating ties with Gulf allies and additional pressure on the global economy.

CNN reported that Vice President JD Vance and senior military officer General Dan Caine advised caution during a White House meeting on Friday.

According to the report, Caine assured President Trump that the military could execute available operational plans but also outlined the potential consequences of further escalation.

Addressing journalists on Friday, Trump confirmed he had not yet decided whether to authorise another large-scale military operation.

“We’re talking to them right now. I think they’re getting more and more serious,” he said.

Trump also warned that Iran must choose between reaching a negotiated settlement or facing strikes at a “much higher level.”

The conflict, now approaching its fifth month despite earlier predictions that it would end within weeks, has reportedly begun to affect Trump’s domestic political standing ahead of November’s midterm elections.

According to Axios, Trump opted against approving a proposed 14th consecutive night of strikes after the Pentagon presented its plans, choosing instead to leave room for renewed diplomatic engagement.

Elsewhere in the region, the conflict continues to expand.

The Iran-backed Houthi movement in Yemen claimed attacks on Saudi Aramco facilities in Jizan and Yanbu, while Saudi Arabia had carried out strikes against Houthi targets a day earlier.

Greek military officials said a missile defence system operated by Greek personnel intercepted two ballistic missiles and a drone over Yanbu.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards also said they intercepted four ships attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route that remains at the centre of tensions between Tehran and Washington.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi maintained that Tehran was not responsible for the escalation and offered to mediate between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia.

“There is no military solution,” Araghchi said.

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