Michael Singh

The U.S. military has paused airstrikes on Iran after nearly two weeks of escalation, while diplomatic efforts continue to prevent a full-scale war. President Trump has issued conflicting statements, threatening further strikes while acknowledging ongoing talks. Israel's potential involvement and Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz remain key factors in the conflict.

The U.S. military has paused airstrikes on Iran after nearly two weeks of escalation, while diplomatic efforts aim to prevent a full-scale war. Uncertainty remains about whether the conflict, marked by Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz and soaring oil prices, will de-escalate or intensify, particularly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's upcoming visit to Washington.

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.

The U.S. military launched strikes on Iran following the downing of an Apache helicopter. NPR's Michel Martin interviewed Michael Singh, a former Middle East adviser in the George W. Bush White House.