Pakistan, July 26 -- The United States paused its military strikes against Iran for the first time in nearly two weeks, even as the regional conflict expanded beyond the Persian Gulf into the Red Sea and the Caspian Sea. Although the US military confirmed that its naval blockade against Iran remains in effect, officials did not explain why the air campaign was halted after 13 consecutive nights of strikes. Meanwhile, no new Iranian attacks on neighbouring countries were reported during the weekend, offering a brief pause in direct escalation.

US officials indicated that President Donald Trump continues to prefer a diplomatic solution despite maintaining military pressure on Tehran. Reports said the administration delayed plans for broade...