Is the war really paused? Iran halts ops but sends final warning to Israel: 'crushing response next'

Iran’s Joint Military Command has announced a halt to offensive operations against Israel while warning that retaliation will resume if hostilities continue. In an official statement, the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters claimed recent strikes were carried out in response to aggression in southern Lebanon and the Dahiyeh region, describing them as a “painful response” to Israel and its allies. Despite the pause, Iranian officials stressed that military forces remain on high alert and ready for a stronger response if needed. The development comes amid renewed exchanges of fire and heightened regional tensions across the Middle East.