Pentagon Warns Against Iran Strikes as Trump Pauses Attack Following Gulf Request

Pentagon officials have urged a halt to air strikes against Iran, citing Tehran's improved ability to track US air operations and the significant strengthening of its air defenses. According to reports, President Trump announced the postponement of an attack scheduled for Tuesday following requests from the leaders of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. Intelligence indicates that Iran utilized the ceasefire period to restore ballistic missile sites and deploy new mobile launchers with Russian and Chinese assistance.

This geopolitical tension coincides with critical energy data, as the API Crude Oil Stock Change report on May 12, 2026, showed a decrease of 2.188 million barrels, exceeding the forecast of a 1.65 million barrel draw. Per market data, energy prices remain sensitive to instability in the Strait of Hormuz, especially as recent industry analysis highlights continued growth in geopolitical risk premiums across global commodity markets.

Looking ahead, investors are focusing on the OPEC Monthly Report scheduled for May 13, 2026, to assess the impact of these tensions on global demand forecasts. The market will also watch the EIA Weekly Petroleum Report on the same day for confirmation of US inventory levels. Financial markets maintain a cautious stance as they await further developments that could impact global supply chains in the Gulf region.