US and Iran pause military strikes to make way for diplomatic talks

The United States and Iran have paused military strikes as both sides intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent a broader war in the Middle East.
The United States and Iran have suspended military strikes against each other, paving the way for intensified diplomatic negotiations as their conflict enters its fifth month. A U.S. Defense Department official confirmed the operational pause, while official sources in Tehran similarly announced a halt to attacks on Sunday.
Despite lingering security concerns—including a mid-trip aircraft swap by U.S. President Donald Trump following Secret Service warnings of an Iranian threat—both sides are maintaining communication. Trump stated that Iranian negotiators are taking the discussions "much more serious," though Washington continues to evaluate both military and diplomatic options to resolve the crisis. The temporary lull in combat aims to prevent further escalation into a full-scale war across the Middle East.
Sources: Koha.
Sources
Earlier coverage
- Jul 25, 2026, 09:30 PM UTCTrump says Iran is serious in negotiations despite security threats and regional tensions
- Jul 25, 2026, 03:30 PM UTCDonald Trump switched presidential aircraft mid-flight over Iranian threat concerns