Iran army says halted retaliatory attacks as US holds fire

According to the Khaleej Times, the Iranian military has officially announced a halt to retaliatory strikes against the United States, coinciding with reports that the US has also ceased offensive operations. This development marks a significant shift in the ongoing tensions that have characterized the region since February, providing a potential window for diplomatic de-escalation.

The announcement follows a period of intense military activity that has seen significant casualties, with the BBC reporting that over 600 US military service members have been injured since the conflict began. The impact of these hostilities has been felt globally, particularly in energy markets, where oil prices experienced a sharp decline following the news of the pause in attacks.

While the situation remains fluid, the cessation of direct strikes is being viewed by international observers as a critical step toward stabilizing the volatile security environment. Al Jazeera has noted that, despite the pause, there are currently no formal negotiations taking place between Tehran and Washington. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely as both nations assess the long-term implications of the recent military engagement.