Vance and Caine’s concerns about risks in Iran, Washington temporarily halts air offensive

US Vice President JD Vance and General Dan Caine, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, have presented President Donald Trump with serious reservations about the possibility of escalating military operations against Iran. According to sources cited by CNN, both senior officials have signaled that an expansion of the conflict could bring unpredictable consequences.

During a Friday meeting at the White House, General Caine drew attention to the level of ammunition reserves and warned of the potential negative implications of a broader campaign. Although he confirmed the full readiness of the armed forces to execute any directive, he highlighted the risks accompanying an expanded offensive, sources close to the discussions say.

CNN reports that US airstrikes against Iranian targets have been placed on hold, after nearly two weeks of continuous nighttime bombings. It remains unclear whether this pause is directly linked to the concerns expressed at Friday’s meeting or to other reasons.

Steven Cheung, White House Communications Director, stressed that President Trump continues to support the diplomatic path, but warned that no alternative is ruled out if Iran persists in activities that the United States views as a threat to the Strait of Hormuz or their partners.

After consultations with his cabinet and security team, Trump declared that negotiations with Tehran are progressing and hinted that air operations could resume or even increase if necessary. He added that the Iranian side appears to be showing a “more serious” approach at the negotiating table.

Meanwhile, according to the same television source, some Persian Gulf states have called on American officials to exercise restraint. Within the administration and the Pentagon itself, there are skeptical voices who doubt that further military escalation would produce the results intended by the White House.

Sean Parnell, Pentagon spokesman, assured that US forces are fully ready to carry out any order of the commander-in-chief and that they possess all necessary capabilities to defend the national interests of the United States.