United States signals no new large-scale military operations against Iran

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has informed allies that the U.S. does not plan to conduct new large-scale military operations against Iran. This shift in policy follows the U.S. Navy's efforts to de-mine much of the Strait of Hormuz, which has allowed increased tanker traffic and reduced Iran's ability to disrupt global energy markets.

While the administration is focusing on alternative pressure methods, such as new sanctions initiatives, officials noted that Rubio did not rule out retaliatory strikes if Iran attacks first. This policy is expected to remain in place at least until the midterm elections.

In Bulgaria, Prime Minister Rumen Radev addressed the recent departure of American tanker aircraft from the Bezmer airbase. Radev clarified that unlike previous deployments used for refueling strike aircraft heading south toward Iran, the two aircraft stationed at Bezmer did not conduct any flights to the south. Instead, their missions were limited to joint training exercises with NATO allies to the north and west, stating that Bulgaria's national security was not at risk.