President Donald Trump instructed the U.S. military not to conduct new strikes in Iran on Friday, ending a period of daily attacks that had lasted for nearly two weeks, according to two sources familiar with the decision. Trump's directive followed his approval of daily strikes over the previous 13 days. It remains uncertain whether this order signifies a temporary pause or a longer-term cessation of military action.
The decision reflects Trump's intent to allow for diplomatic efforts and an acknowledgment that the current level of U.S. strikes may have reached its effectiveness limit without escalating to major combat operations. Should Trump decide to resume strikes, the military can mobilize quickly. Plans for a potential return to major combat operations are still being prepared, but no orders have been issued.
For the past two weeks, Trump approved military strike plans each afternoon, which were executed within hours. However, on Friday, he received a similar plan but chose not to authorize it, instead directing the military to refrain from action. In remarks to reporters, Trump indicated he has options to continue or escalate strikes, including significant military action against Iran, but expressed a preference for negotiating a deal.
Trump stated, "We're talking to [the Iranians] right now. I think they're getting more and more serious as the days go by. We're locked and loaded and ready to go, but we're talking to them." Later, during the White House Correspondents Association dinner, he mentioned that while he does not believe Iran is currently ready to negotiate, he is open to discussions.
The order to halt strikes came shortly after an Omani delegation arrived in Tehran for discussions aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Sources familiar with the negotiations reported that progress has been made, and an agreement between Oman and Iran could be reached soon, pending Trump's decision on whether to accept any proposed deal.