US President Donald Trump Halts Fresh Iran Strikes Amid Reports of Shrinking US Missile Stockpiles

Washington: US President Donald Trump has decided to stop new military attacks against Iran for the time being. According to media reports, after a high-level meeting with top national security advisers and Cabinet members, Trump instructed the US military not to carry out new attacks. It is being told that after the military operation that continued for 13 consecutive days, the White House now wants to give priority to the diplomatic route. Trump believes that it would be more practical to find a solution through negotiations with Iran rather than a widespread war.

Why was the decision taken to stop the attacks?

According to US media reports, senior army officials had warned the administration that if the military campaign against Iran drags on, it could put serious pressure on the air defence resources of US forces deployed in the Middle East. In particular, the stockpile of Patriot interceptor missiles and other defence systems was feared to be rapidly depleting. After this input, Trump decided to stop the military action for the time being.

What warning did the army give?

According to reports, General Dan Kane, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told the administration that the stock of interceptor missiles available to US Central Command could be dangerously low if large-scale military operations were resumed. Due to this, there will be a danger of affecting not only the American soldiers deployed in the area but also the security systems of the allied countries.

Can attacks start again in future?

American officials say that the military operation has been stopped for the time being, but it cannot be considered a permanent decision. If President Trump issues orders again in the future, the US military is in a position to resume military operations in a very short time. The defence establishment is continuing its preparations in view of the possible situation.

What did Trump say about Iran?

While talking to reporters at the White House, Trump said that America still has the option of military action, but at the moment his priority is to find a solution through dialogue. He said that dialogue between America and Iran is continuing and he feels that with time Iran is also becoming more serious about talks. Trump reiterated that America is capable of taking military action if needed, but diplomatic efforts are a better option at the moment.

Why was Israel on high alert?

According to Israeli officials, they feared another major attack on Iran from the US on Friday. Keeping this possibility in mind, Israel had put its security system on high alert. Israel feared that if America took new action, Iran might target Israeli targets in response. However, after Trump's decision to stop the attacks, some immediate reduction in tension is expected.