US pauses strikes on Iran as diplomatic talks begin over Strait of Hormuz

United States President Donald Trump has ordered a halt to military air strikes against Iran following 13 consecutive nights of bombardment, seeking to allow room for diplomatic discussions. The decision coincided with the arrival of a diplomatic delegation from Oman in Tehran aimed at negotiating an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with regional sources suggesting a deal could be reached over the weekend.

In response to the hostilities, Iranian military spokesperson Mohammad Akraminia warned that Tehran is prepared to expand the conflict's geographic scope and deploy new battle tactics if American strikes resume. Meanwhile, reports indicate that Washington is weighing a covert military initiative to secure or destroy Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles, a proposal analysts have flagged as exceptionally hazardous.

Sources: Point, Ukrinform