US not planning new Iran strikes for now

The United States is not expected to launch new strikes against Iran for the time being, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has told several foreign counterparts, according to US officials familiar with the discussions.

Instead, Washington is focusing on other forms of pressure, including a sanctions initiative announced this week, as the Trump administration seeks to contain Iran and bring the conflict to an end.

The message comes as the United States maintains pressure on Iran through a naval blockade while efforts continue to move increasing amounts of oil through the Strait of Hormuz.

A US official said Rubio made clear that Washington was not planning a return to major combat operations, but did not rule out possible strikes if Iran were to launch an attack first.

Another US official described US Navy efforts to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz as a significant development in the conflict, saying the operation had reduced one of Iran’s key sources of leverage.

Rubio’s message to allied foreign ministers comes as President Donald Trump faces growing pressure to end the conflict while maintaining pressure on Tehran through economic and military measures.

For now, the US approach appears to be shifting away from further major strikes and towards sanctions and other forms of pressure.