The New York Times reported on Wednesday that Iran has exerted significant pressure on its Houthi allies to halt attacks on U.S. ships over the past few months.  

According to Iranian officials quoted by the newspaper, Iran "activated its influence over the Houthis" as part of an effort to ease regional tensions, especially following an escalation in maritime attacks that the Houthis claimed were in solidarity with Gaza.  

Trump's Statement & Ceasefire Efforts  

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the Houthis expressed their willingness to de-escalate, even requesting that the U.S. stop airstrikes on their positions in Yemen. Trump added, "They said they no longer want to fight."  

His statement coincided with Oman’s announcement that the two sides had reached a preliminary ceasefire agreement, which includes an end to targeting U.S. ships in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The agreement follows several rounds of negotiations involving Muscat, Washington, and Sanaa.  

Regional & U.S. Reactions  

Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al-Busaidi confirmed that the agreement is a result of talks aimed at reducing tensions and ensuring maritime security, stating that both sides pledged not to attack each other in the near future.  

The U.S. State Department welcomed the understanding but emphasized that it is a "true test of the Houthis' seriousness," adding that Washington will closely monitor the implementation of the agreement on the ground.