US and Iran Implement Strategic Pause in Airstrike Campaign
The United States military paused its intensive two-week bombing campaign against Iran on July 26, 2026, while Tehran concurrently halted retaliatory strikes against U.S. allies in the Middle East. Mediators from Oman reported that both sides are showing signs of de-escalation to prevent a full-scale ground invasion. However, U.S. Central Command confirmed that the naval blockade against Iran remains in full effect to restrict strategic shipping.