US pauses Iran strikes, shifts to sanctions and Hormuz pressure

The United States has paused new military strikes against Iran, Secretary of State Marco Rubio told allies, shifting focus to economic sanctions and maritime pressure, according to Axios. Washington will rely on sanctions to squeeze Iran's economy, including secondary penalties on foreign businesses, while maintaining a naval blockade. The Strait of Hormuz remains central, with US mine-clearing operations restoring tanker traffic, though military action is not ruled out if Iran attacks first. The strategy could continue past the US midterm elections, with Washington reassessing broader military options later. The State Department is also restoring diplomatic presence in West Asia, hoping sustained financial pressure pushes Tehran toward negotiations.