Why did Iran and the US halt missile strikes in the Gulf?

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Iran and the US Halted Missile Strikes in the Gulf to Allow for Diplomatic Space and Due to Munitions Concerns

Iran and the United States ceased missile strikes in the Gulf on Sunday, providing a temporary reprieve for regional shipping and the oil industry. Iran announced it had halted retaliatory attacks against US allies in the Middle East, while a US envoy indicated President Trump was allowing space for negotiations. This pause followed 13 consecutive nights of US military strikes prior to Friday, marking a significant escalation in the nearly five-month conflict.
Diplomatic Negotiations Were Given Space to Progress

The cessation of hostilities was framed as an opportunity for diplomatic engagement. US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, stated that President Trump was "giving talks some space," suggesting a deliberate move to de-escalate tensions and open avenues for negotiation. Iran’s army spokesman, Mohammad Akraminia, confirmed that the US had stopped its attacks for two nights and that Iran had also halted its retaliatory operations, aligning with this diplomatic approach. The lull in fighting has revived hopes for renewed negotiations between the two nations.
Concerns Over Munitions Stockpiles May Have Influenced the Pause

Reports from American media suggested that the pause in US strikes might also be influenced by pressure on US stockpiles of defensive weapons, such as Patriot interceptors. While Waltz dismissed these reports, citing sufficient military resources, The New York Times cited sources indicating that plans to escalate the US campaign were shelved partly due to shrinking munitions supplies. This logistical consideration could have played a role in the decision to halt offensive operations.
The Escalating Conflict Had Broadened and Impacted Global Markets

The conflict, which had expanded beyond the Strait of Hormuz to include attacks on US bases, regional shipping, and Gulf allies, was nearing its fifth month. Prior to the pause, the US military had conducted strikes on Iran for 13 consecutive nights, representing the most significant escalation since an April ceasefire. Unconfirmed reports even suggested an oil tanker was damaged by a sea mine on Sunday. The uncertainty and escalation had a tangible impact on global markets, with oil prices falling in Asian markets on Monday due to the temporary relief from hostilities.
Upcoming Diplomatic Engagements Highlighted the Strategic Context

The timing of the halt in strikes also coincided with significant diplomatic activity. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was scheduled to meet with President Trump at the White House on Tuesday to discuss Iran's nuclear program. Netanyahu expressed support for Trump's efforts to halt Iran's nuclear program, emphasizing that it must end regardless of a potential deal. This high-level meeting underscored the broader geopolitical considerations influencing the US approach to Iran.

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Why did Iran and the US halt missile strikes in the Gulf?

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