US President Donald Trump ordered the military not to conduct additional strikes against Iran on the 24th (local time), according to online media outlet Axios citing two sources on the 25th. The directive came after 13 consecutive days of military clashes between the US and Iran that ended on the 23rd, with no combat recorded on the 24th per Central Command and Iranian Health Ministry spokesman Hossein Kermanpour. Trump's decision reflected a shift toward diplomatic engagement, as he told reporters the same day that a "smarter strategy" would be reaching a deal with Iran.
Trump Halts Strike Approval After 13-Day Campaign
Trump received strike plans similar to previous operations on the 24th but did not approve them, instead directing the military not to conduct airstrikes, Axios reported. The US and Iran engaged in military clashes for 13 consecutive days through the 23rd. On the 24th, Central Command issued no announcements regarding strike commencement or completion, and Kermanpour stated "no attacks were recorded."
Axios noted the directive came after Trump approved daily airstrikes for the previous 13 days. The outlet stated it remains unclear whether the Friday directive represents a one-time decision or signals a sustained pause in operations.
Trump Signals Diplomatic Preference in White House Remarks
Trump told reporters at the White House on the 24th that the "smarter strategy" is "reaching a deal" with Iran. "We are talking now (with the Iranian side). I think they are getting more and more serious as time goes on," Trump said, adding "we are fully prepared and ready to act at any time, but we are talking to them."
At a White House Correspondents' Dinner speech that evening, Trump said he does not currently believe Iran is ready to make a deal, but stated "I am willing to listen to them."
Axios assessed that Trump's decision reflects both a willingness to allow more room for diplomacy and recognition that current US airstrike levels have reached effectiveness limits without returning to large-scale combat operations.
Oman Delegation Visits Iran for Hormuz Strait Negotiations
Trump's directive came hours after an Omani delegation visited Iran the previous day to discuss new proposals for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, Axios reported. Two regional sources familiar with the negotiations told Axios that progress occurred in the talks, with a potential agreement between Oman and Iran possible this weekend. Iran has declared its intention to jointly manage the Strait of Hormuz with Oman.
FAQ
What did Trump order regarding Iran strikes on the 24th?
Trump directed the US military not to conduct additional airstrikes against Iran on the 24th (local time), according to Axios citing two sources. He received but did not approve strike plans similar to previous operations.
Why did the US-Iran military clashes stop on the 24th?
No combat was recorded on the 24th after 13 consecutive days of clashes through the 23rd. Trump stated the same day that a "smarter strategy" would be reaching a deal with Iran, signaling a shift toward diplomatic engagement.
What diplomatic efforts are underway regarding the Strait of Hormuz?
An Omani delegation visited Iran to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Two regional sources told Axios that negotiations showed progress, with a possible agreement between Oman and Iran this weekend.
