Trump gives US-Iran talks ‘some space’ as Washington pauses bombing campaign after 13 days
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump is allowing diplomatic efforts with Iran “some space” after the United States suspended its bombing campaign following 13 consecutive days of airstrikes, according to a senior White House aide.
The pause marks the first significant break in US military operations since Washington launched sustained strikes against Iranian military targets earlier this month. Officials stressed that the halt is temporary and does not signal an end to military pressure, but rather an opportunity to determine whether diplomacy can prevent a broader regional conflict.
The US military did not conduct bombing raids over the weekend after nearly two weeks of continuous operations, despite earlier warnings from the White House that even larger attacks could follow if Iran continued threatening American interests.
White House testing diplomacy
A senior administration official said President Trump wants to determine whether recent diplomatic contacts can produce meaningful progress before authorising additional military action.
The United States has been engaged in indirect discussions with Iran through Omani mediators, while regional governments have intensified efforts to prevent the conflict from expanding into a wider Middle East war.
Officials emphasised that military forces remain on high alert and that the pause could end immediately if Iran launches new attacks or negotiations fail.
Military pressure remains
Although bombing operations have paused, the Pentagon continues to maintain a significant military presence across the region.
Aircraft carriers, strategic bombers, fighter aircraft and missile defence systems remain deployed, giving Washington the ability to resume strikes on short notice.
Senior US officials have repeatedly stated that the suspension should not be interpreted as a reduction in military readiness.
Growing concern inside the administration
The diplomatic opening follows reports that senior officials, including Vice President JD Vance and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, urged caution over the risk of a prolonged regional war.
According to officials familiar with internal discussions, advisers warned that expanding the campaign could place additional pressure on US military resources, increase threats to American forces across the Middle East and further disrupt global energy markets.
Those concerns reportedly contributed to the decision to temporarily pause the bombing campaign while diplomatic channels remain active.
Iran signals willingness to negotiate
Iran has also indicated that it is prepared to reduce military activity as long as the United States refrains from launching further attacks.
Tehran has confirmed that discussions with Oman have produced progress on mechanisms to improve maritime security and navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important shipping routes.
While neither side has announced a formal ceasefire, diplomats describe the current period as a critical opportunity to prevent the conflict from escalating further.
Markets watching closely
Financial markets continue to monitor developments closely, particularly after recent attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz pushed oil prices sharply higher.
Energy analysts warn that any collapse in negotiations or renewed military action could trigger another surge in crude prices and disrupt global supply chains.
For now, Washington's decision to pause its air campaign suggests the White House is attempting to balance military pressure with diplomatic engagement—while keeping the option of renewed strikes firmly on the table.