WASHINGTON: The United States President Donald Trump has ordered the American military to suspend strikes on Iran for one day, a move aimed at giving diplomacy an opportunity following nearly two weeks of daily military operations.
According to U.S. news outlet, President Trump instructed the military not to carry out any new strikes on Friday after authorizing daily attacks over the previous 13 days. The report said it remains unclear whether the decision represents a temporary pause or signals a broader shift in U.S. policy toward Iran.
The report quoted officials as saying Trump believes the ongoing military campaign has already exerted significant pressure on Iran and that allowing diplomatic efforts to proceed is preferable to becoming further entangled in a large-scale conflict.
Despite the pause, the report noted that U.S. forces remain on high alert and are fully prepared to resume operations at short notice should the president authorize further military action.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, President Trump said the United States could continue strikes against Iran if necessary, adding that Washington has the capability to destroy “everything” Iran possesses if the situation escalates.
The temporary suspension comes amid heightened regional tensions, with the U.S. military maintaining readiness while diplomatic efforts are being explored.
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