CAIRO — The United States paused its attacks on Iran for a second straight day Sunday and Tehran said it had done so too, as efforts continued to bring the countries back to negotiations on an interim ceasefire deal largely undermined by recent exchanges of fire.It was not clear why the U.S.has paused after targeting Iranian coastal areas and infrastructure in a nearly two-week escalation sparked by Iran's firing at ships trying to transit the Strait of Hormuz.
The Pentagon did not immediately respond to questions Sunday."President (Donald) Trump has always been consistent in saying he prefers a diplomatic solution, but he continues to retain all options if Iran continues terrorist activities in the Strait of Hormuz or against allies," White House communications director Steven Cheung said, adding: "It would be wise for Iran to work toward a negotiated deal.Otherwise, they know what will happen."Since the U.S.
has halted attacks for the past two nights, Iran has as well, its army spokesperson told Iran's state TV on Sunday.Tehran in recent days has counterattacked against countries in the region hosting U.S.
military forces, killing at least three at a base in Jordan.The 60-day period that began when the interim deal was signed by both countries in mid-June is now well into its second half, and major issues that were meant to be negotiated -– notably Iran's nuclear program at the heart of tensions -– remain set aside as mediators try to keep both sides talking.A regional official involved in mediation efforts said diplomacy was underway and that a pause in U.S.and Iranian strikes was a "positive signal that helps their efforts to de-escalate."The official said both countries want to return to the interim ceasefire deal and that a compromise being negotiated centers on having Iran run vessel transit through the Strait of Hormuz with fewer restrictions on ships.
The official was not authorized to discuss the matter and spoke on condition of anonymity.Concern...