US-Iran conflict escalates as strikes continue and diplomatic tensions rise

The United States and Iran are locked in a deepening cycle of military strikes and diplomatic friction, with a pause in consecutive night-time attacks after nearly two weeks of operations. Sources indicate that Vice President Vance and national security aide Caine raised concerns about the risk of a broader war, prompting the Trump administration to reassess its approach. The pause follows a period of intense US airstrikes that hit bridges and infrastructure deeper inside Iran than before. The Pentagon has also lowered its count of Iranian war dead, a move that has sparked questions and criticism. Meanwhile, the Senate failed to advance a war powers resolution, breaking with the House GOP vote. The conflict has driven up gas prices as the naval blockade near the Strait of Hormuz remains in place. Iran has reported no US strikes overnight, but tensions remain high amid reports that Russia may be providing satellite imagery to Iran to target US bases, as alleged by Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Saudi Arabia has also struck Iran-backed Houthi targets in Yemen, widening the regional front. US officials say Iran-linked hackers have been disrupting American water and energy providers, adding a cyber dimension to the crisis. Diplomatic talks are reportedly pressing forward, but it remains unclear whether both sides can take the off-ramp.