WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump is considering holding back from further military strikes on Iran if Tehran and the Iran-backed Houthi group in Yemen refrain from fresh provocations, according to people familiar with discussions inside the administration.
Trump has discussed the possibility with national security advisers following intelligence briefings, but has not taken a final decision on how to proceed with the conflict that began with US and Israeli military action against Iran in February.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have also urged Trump not to resume attacks during recent conversations. The two leaders argued for restraint, but Trump did not commit to either course of action, according to people familiar with the calls.
Washington has kept the military option open. A third US aircraft carrier is expected to move into the Middle East in the coming days. Officials have said American forces remain prepared to escalate if required.
US intelligence assessments indicate that economic sanctions and a naval blockade are putting pressure on Iran's economy. However, officials believe renewed strikes may not significantly change Tehran's position in negotiations.
Israel, meanwhile, continues to press Washington for another military campaign.
The conflict has pushed up global fuel prices and faced growing opposition in the United States. A survey conducted before the November 3 midterm elections found that 55 per cent of Americans considered the war not worth its cost.
The White House said the decision on any further action rests with Trump.
(With inputs from media reports)