Vance and Caine Warn of Escalation Risks in Iran, US Temporarily Halts Airstrikes

The United States has temporarily suspended air operations against Iran, after nearly two weeks of successive nighttime strikes. According to CNN sources, the decision came as Vice President JD Vance and General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, expressed serious concerns to President Donald Trump about the risk of a wider conflict.

During a meeting on Friday at the White House, General Caine drew attention to the state of ammunition reserves and the consequences that an expansion of the military campaign could bring. He informed the president that the armed forces are ready to execute any order, but did not hide the risks accompanying a prolonged offensive.

It is not yet known whether the halt of attacks is directly linked to these warnings or to other independent factors. However, within the administration and the Pentagon there are growing doubts that further military escalation would meet the objectives desired by the president.

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung stated that President Trump continues to support a diplomatic solution, although all options remain open if Iran persists in actions that Washington considers threatening in the Strait of Hormuz area or against American partners.

After discussions with his cabinet and advisory team, Trump said that the United States is continuing dialogue with Tehran and hinted that the bombings could resume or even escalate. He also added that the Iranian side seems to be adopting a ‘more serious’ approach at the negotiating table.

Meanwhile, several states in the Persian Gulf region have called on American officials to exercise restraint. For his part, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell emphasized that the US military is fully prepared to respond to any decision by the president and possesses the appropriate means to defend national interests.