Iran warns of war expansion if US resumes attacks; US pauses strikes for second day amid diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East and Strait of Hormuz

Iran's army has warned that the Middle East conflict would widen if the United States chose to press ahead with attacks on the Islamic Republic. This comes as the US has paused its airstrikes on Iran for a second consecutive day, with diplomatic efforts reportedly underway to avert an all-out war. Iran also claimed a Ukrainian attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea, killing a sailor, and reported progress in talks with Oman on managing the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The US Central Command, however, stated its maritime blockade of Iran remains in effect, while Houthi rebels escalated tensions by attacking Saudi oil facilities.