Donald Trump is reportedly holding back on launching new military strikes against Iran unless Iran or its allies make the next move.
After talking with leaders from Saudi Arabia and Turkey, the Saudi leader said sanctions were working better than bombs and urged Trump to hold off, while the Turkish leader urged Trump not to resume attacks and said tensions between Iran and the US need to end.
Trump seems to be leaning toward pressure without escalation.
This comes as his approach faces scrutiny since the 2026 conflict with Israel, which shook up global fuel prices and US politics.
US stresses sanctions and military presence
Trump is focusing on tough economic sanctions and keeping a strong US military presence in the region instead of immediate attacks.
The US has already hit Iran with economic sanctions and a naval blockade, hurting the Iranian economy and putting pressure on Tehran.
Meanwhile, US forces (including a third aircraft carrier) are on standby if things heat up again, while Israel keeps pushing for more direct action.