Trump Rules Out Further Strikes, Pivots to Economic Pressure on Iran

President Trump signaled the US is shifting from military strikes to economic pressure on Iran, describing ongoing talks as only 'semi-negotiations' and saying Washington is going 'low key.' Trump stated there would be no more strikes on Iran for now, emphasizing that maximum economic sanctions — rather than continued airstrikes — would be the primary tool to compel Iranian concessions on its nuclear program and shipping behavior. The posture shift comes amid a fragile de-escalation following the collapse of the Islamabad MOU in early July 2026 and subsequent resumed US strikes. Trump did not announce a formal ceasefire or diplomatic breakthrough.