Brad Cooper, the top U.S. military commander in the Middle East, recommended halting the U.S. bombing campaign around the Strait of Hormuz, arguing that it had achieved most of its objectives and that further limited strikes would have little effect. His advice, along with warnings about dwindling air defense interceptor supplies, helped influence President Trump’s decision to pause strikes on Friday. Meanwhile, Iran and Oman are negotiating a plan to reopen the strait, and with both sides largely suspending attacks, the conflict has entered a temporary lull while diplomatic efforts continue. Source: Axios