U.S. officials believe sanctions could hurt Iran more than bombs

The Trump administration has paused its bombing campaign against Iran after thirteen consecutive days of strikes, shifting focus to what senior U.S. officials believe may ultimately prove more effective: economic pressure. Axios reports that sanctions and a naval blockade have triggered a deepening crisis inside Iran—gasoline shortages in one of the world's most oil-rich countries, intelligence showing the regime cannot pay its fighters, banks teetering toward runs. Mediators from Oman, Qatar, and Pakistan are attempting to convert the bombing pause into a lasting ceasefire. Both sides want something: Iran is demanding money, sanctions relief, and guarantees against future attacks; the Trump administration is demanding that Tehran surrender its remaining nuclear material. Whether economic pressure alone will force Iran to the negotiating table remains uncertain—but U.S. officials insist it's already working.

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