US officials pause Iran strikes as concerns over escalation and munitions stockpile are raised

Vice President JD Vance and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine expressed concerns about expanding the war with Iran during a White House meeting on Friday, according to sources familiar with the discussion. The meeting took place as President Donald Trump weighed the possibility of further military action.

The Department of Defense confirmed that U.S. air operations against Iran were placed on hold on Friday night after nearly two weeks of consecutive strikes. Caine reportedly highlighted the strain on U.S. munitions stockpiles and warned of broader negative implications if the campaign continued.

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said President Trump continues to prefer a diplomatic solution but retains all options if Iran persists in hostile actions in the Strait of Hormuz or against allies. He added that sanctions and recent strikes should encourage Iran to pursue a negotiated settlement.

After the meeting, President Trump told reporters that negotiations with Iran were ongoing and that the military could either maintain the current level of strikes or increase them, describing Iran as becoming “more serious” in talks. Gulf states have urged restraint, while acknowledging the United States retains unique capabilities to intensify the conflict if it chooses.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell affirmed that the U.S. military remains capable of executing operations as directed by the president, citing recent successful missions across combatant commands.