Breaking News: President Trump has set aside, at least for now, plans to sharply escalate the American military assault against Iran. https://t.co/qvWp4egLZd
— The New York Times (@nytimes) July 25, 2026
The report said military officials warned that a major escalation could significantly reduce the US military’s ability to defend troops and allies in the region if Iran launches further retaliatory attacks.Pentagon reportedly warns of falling interceptor stocks
General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is said to have privately advised Trump that while the US military is capable of carrying out larger operations against Iran, doing so could dangerously reduce interceptor supplies available to US Central Command, which oversees military operations in the Middle East.
According to Hindustan Times, citing CNN, Vice President JD Vance also raised concerns during Friday’s meeting over the impact that a prolonged campaign could have on US weapons stockpiles. However, it remains unclear whether these concerns were the main reason behind the decision to pause the strikes.
The US military did not announce any overnight strikes on Iran on Saturday, marking the first pause after 13 consecutive days of attacks.
Wider regional risks also weighed
Beyond military readiness, the Trump administration is also said to be concerned about the possibility of a broader regional conflict. The Business Times reported that officials discussed the risks of drawing key Gulf allies deeper into the conflict, along with the potential impact on global energy markets, the economy and refugee movements.
The concerns have grown as Iran continues to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest oil transit routes.
Earlier this month, three US soldiers were killed in Jordan after a ballistic missile reportedly penetrated US air defences during an Iranian missile and drone attack, highlighting the pressure on existing air defence systems.
Trump says diplomacy remains an option
Speaking to reporters after Friday’s meeting, Trump said the US remained ready for military action while continuing diplomatic talks with Iran.
“We’re locked and loaded. We’re ready to go, but we’re talking to them, so maybe there will be, maybe there won’t be a tipping point,” Trump said.
White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said Trump continues to prefer a diplomatic solution but retains all military options if Iran carries out attacks in the Strait of Hormuz or targets US allies.
Cheung also said Iran should work towards a negotiated agreement after facing sanctions and recent US military strikes.
Diplomatic efforts continue
According to Hindustan Times, citing Axios, Trump did not approve another round of strikes on Friday despite earlier publicly saying he was considering a larger military operation.
The report added that Oman is attempting to broker an agreement with Iran aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, while US negotiators have continued diplomatic contacts even as military planning remains active.
Gulf countries have also reportedly urged Washington to exercise restraint while acknowledging that the US retains the military capability to escalate if required.
Pentagon says US military remains prepared
Despite concerns over interceptor inventories, the Pentagon said US forces remain fully capable of carrying out any mission ordered by the president.
Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the US military has the capabilities needed to protect American personnel and interests while continuing operations across different regions.
Meanwhile, The Business Times reported that several officials within Trump’s administration believe continued economic pressure and negotiations may offer a lower-risk alternative to a wider military campaign against Iran.
It remains unclear whether fresh negotiations will lead to a breakthrough, as divisions reportedly continue within Iran over the possibility of reaching a new agreement.
