President Donald Trump has ordered U.S. forces to cease airstrikes against Iran, bringing to an end 13 consecutive days of attacks.
Axios reported on the 25th, citing multiple sources, that Trump received a report on airstrike plans from the military the previous day but did not approve them, instructing the military to refrain from conducting any attacks.
As a result, the U.S. airstrikes against Iran were halted for the day on the 24th. However, it remains uncertain whether this directive is a one-time measure or if the pause in airstrikes will continue for the foreseeable future.
In recent weeks, Trump had approved daily airstrike plans submitted by the military, with attacks reportedly carried out within hours of approval.
The military is still preparing plans in case of a resumption of large-scale operations, but sources indicate that Trump has not yet ordered an expansion of operations. Should a resumption order be given, the military is reportedly in a position to act relatively quickly.
During a press briefing at the White House the previous day, Trump stated that while the U.S. is engaged in dialogue with Iran, he warned that military action could be taken immediately if negotiations fail. He said, "We are fully prepared and can act at any time," while also emphasizing that discussions with Iran are ongoing. He expressed that reaching an agreement with Iran would be a wiser strategy than continuing or expanding airstrikes.
At a dinner with the White House Correspondents' Association, Trump remarked, "I don’t think Iran is ready to make a deal right now, but I am ready to listen."
The Israeli government and military had initially anticipated additional U.S. airstrikes and were preparing for potential retaliatory attacks from Iran and Iran-aligned armed groups. According to Israeli officials, the security cabinet and military leadership were on alert for large-scale airstrikes, having not fully grasped the U.S. operational plans. They were informed the previous night that Trump had not approved further airstrikes.
Trump's order to halt airstrikes came just hours after an Omani negotiating team arrived in Tehran to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Regional sources familiar with the negotiations indicated that progress is being made in discussions between Oman and Iran, with the possibility of an agreement emerging over the weekend. Whether Trump will accept any agreement reached will be a key factor in determining the future of airstrikes.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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