Airstrikes have paused and talks are pressing forward. But can the US and Iran take the off-ramp?

The U.S. military has paused airstrikes on Iran after two weeks of intensified bombing, while diplomatic efforts aim to prevent a return to full-scale war. Uncertainty remains about whether this pause signals a potential de-escalation or a temporary operational halt, with mediation focusing on resolving control of the Strait of Hormuz. Israel's absence from recent attacks and its planned visit to the U.S. add to the complexity of the situation.