Iran Says It Will Halt Attacks If US Maintains Strike Pause, But Voices Deep Skepticism

Iran will suspend its own military operations as long as the United States continues its pause on strikes, according to a senior Iranian source who spoke to Reuters, though Tehran remains doubtful about Washington’s true intentions.

“Attack for Attack” Position

The source said Iran’s stance remains straightforward: if US attacks stop, Iranian operations will stop too, a message already relayed to Washington. However, the source described more skepticism than optimism within Iran’s leadership, calling the American pause likely tactical rather than a genuine shift in position. Iran said it is prepared to mount a broad response if the US resumes strikes.

Deep Distrust of US Intentions

The Iranian source said Tehran has accumulated what it views as bitter experience with US deception, leading officials to doubt that the pause signals any real change in Washington’s approach. A senior Trump administration official said Saturday the president prefers diplomacy but has shown Iran the consequences of refusing serious negotiations.

Background on the Conflict

US forces had struck Iran nightly for 13 consecutive nights, describing the campaign as retaliation for Iranian attacks on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran maintains it is seeking to retain control over the strait, a critical global energy shipping route. Reports from the New York Times and CNN indicate Trump advisers raised concerns about depleting missile defense stockpiles.