Iran halts retaliatory strikes after lull in U.S. attacks

Iran pauses military response

Iran has halted its retaliatory strikes against American targets after a marked lull in US attacks, signalling a potential de-escalation in the ongoing conflict. The move comes as both sides appear to step back from the brink of a broader war.

The development was reported on Sunday, with multiple international outlets confirming a two-day pause in hostilities. The US ambassador stated that President Donald Trump paused attacks on Iran to create space for talks.

US shift in strategy

According to a report from India Today, Trump initially wanted to hit Iran harder. A US commander’s advice convinced him to change course, sources said. The commander reportedly argued that a massive escalation could trigger an uncontrollable regional conflict.

The US ambassador confirmed that the pause was deliberate. “We are giving diplomacy a chance,” he said, without providing a timeline for formal negotiations.

What changed on the ground

For the past two days, no new airstrikes or missile attacks have been reported from either side. This is the longest stretch of calm since the current cycle of violence began. Al Jazeera noted that both countries hit pause on strikes for the second consecutive day.

The lull has raised cautious optimism among diplomats. CNBC reported that the fighting has stopped to give peace talks “space,” though no official negotiations have been announced yet.

Role of US military advice

The shift in US strategy highlights the influence of senior military commanders in tempering political impulses. The India Today report detailed how the commander’s intervention prevented a more aggressive strike plan. The advice focused on the risks of a prolonged engagement with Iran, which could draw in regional proxies.

Iran’s decision to halt retaliatory strikes mirrors the US pause. Tehran has not issued an official statement, but state media have downplayed the escalation in recent hours. Analysts suggest Iran is testing whether the US is serious about talks.

Diplomatic window opens

The back-to-back pauses have created a narrow window for diplomacy. Both sides have signalled willingness to negotiate, though no venue or agenda has been set. The US ambassador said talks would focus on de-escalation and nuclear concerns.

Iranian officials have not confirmed their participation. But the cessation of strikes suggests a mutual interest in avoiding all-out war. The coming days will reveal whether this pause becomes a lasting truce or a temporary breather before another round of violence.

What to watch: Whether the US and Iran announce formal talks in the next week, or if the lull collapses under new provocations from either side or their regional allies.