US halts new Iran strikes, shifts to sanctions

The United States has signaled a shift in its strategy toward Iran, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio informing allied foreign ministers that Washington does not currently plan to launch new military strikes against Iran 'for the time being.' Instead, the Trump administration is focusing on economic and maritime pressure, including a new sanctions campaign led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, a naval blockade, and efforts to keep oil flowing through the Strait of Hormuz. US officials cited by Axios said the policy is expected to remain in place at least until after the November midterm elections, after which a renewed military campaign could be considered. The US Navy's mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz have been described as a 'watershed moment,' reducing Iran's leverage over global energy markets. Meanwhile, Iran and Oman have resumed talks on managing shipping through the strait, discussing a temporary navigational corridor and joint mine-clearing. The US has also begun restoring its diplomatic presence in the region. The shift comes amid a broader global energy crisis, with conflicts in the Gulf and Ukraine reducing refining capacity and disrupting oil supplies.