US Halts Iran Strikes After 13 Nights Amid Stockpile Fears as Houthis Hit Saudi Oil
The US paused military strikes against Iran this past weekend after 13 consecutive nights of attacks, following direction from the Trump administration. Department of War officials confirmed operations are 'on hold,' though it remains unclear if the suspension is temporary as Trump also ordered forces to stay prepared for possible combat resumption.
Meanwhile, Yemen's Houthi rebels launched missile and drone strikes against Saudi Aramco oil facilities in Jizan and Yanbu on Saturday, claiming retaliation for Saudi attacks on Yemen's port city of Hodeida. The US pause stems partly from Pentagon concerns about dwindling interceptor missile stocks needed to counter Iranian threats, with officials like VP Vance and Joint Chiefs Chairman Caine warning that continued fighting could critically drain regional munitions supplies.
Iranian officials framed the pause as evidence of US failure to achieve objectives in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran's parliament reviews new strait management laws and Muscat talks progress on maritime cooperation. Analysts warn the situation risks further destabilizing global energy markets.