President Donald Trump announced the U.S. would postpone further strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure and delay a final decision on an Iranian proposal.
This decision comes as the U.S. attempts to avoid further escalation in a regional conflict that began on Feb. 28 [2]. The move suggests a shift toward diplomatic resolution after recent talks between the two nations.
Trump said the U.S. does not want Iran’s Supreme Leader killed at this time. "We know where Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is hiding, but we don’t want him killed ‘for now,’" Trump said [1].
To evaluate the current state of negotiations, Trump met with aides for two hours at the White House to discuss a possible cease-fire extension [2]. He said the administration is not rushing the process, stating, "Time is on our side" [3].
The announcement follows a series of diplomatic efforts that began in June 2025 [1]. While some reports suggest that military operations targeting critical Iranian energy and power sites have continued, the administration's current stance emphasizes a pause in direct strikes against leadership [4].
Contradictory reports exist regarding the status of the latest peace proposal. Some sources indicate the proposal was rejected amid a shadow drone war, while others state that negotiators have agreed to broad principles of agreement [5]. The White House has not yet issued a final verdict on the specific terms of the Iranian offer.
“"We know where Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is hiding, but we don’t want him killed ‘for now.’"”
The postponement of strikes on energy infrastructure indicates a tactical pivot by the U.S. to leverage diplomatic channels without fully abandoning military pressure. By delaying a decision on Iran's proposal and explicitly sparing the Supreme Leader, the administration is attempting to create a window for a negotiated cease-fire while maintaining the threat of force to ensure favorable terms.
