Iran Fortifies Defenses and Rebuilds Economy During Funeral Pause; Trump Claims U.S. Restraint

Amid a temporary lull in active hostilities, Iran has begun a strategic push to rebuild its economic and defense infrastructure. Reports indicate that Tehran has initiated oil talks with Japanese firms and deployed construction vehicles to fortify tunnel entrances at critical nuclear sites, including the Kolang Gaz La Mountain complex. This activity occurs as the country prepares for a massive funeral turnout for the late Ayatollah Khamenei, which Iranian officials describe as a national referendum. President Trump, speaking from Mount Rushmore, framed the current decrease in military activity as a voluntary U.S. gesture, stating the U.S. gave Iran a 'week off' for mourning because 'we’re nice.' While Trump maintained that Iran is eager to negotiate following U.S. military pressure, Iranian military commanders have issued warnings against any 'miscalculations' or strikes during the funeral period, threatening harsh retaliation. Regional tensions remain high as Iran-backed Hezbollah continues kinetic engagements with the IDF in southern Lebanon. Furthermore, the IRGC-affiliated Mahan Air has resumed direct flights to Houthi-controlled Sanaa, Yemen, marking the first such connection in over ten years. In the diplomatic sphere, reports of a potential intelligence rift have surfaced, suggesting U.S. officials suspected Israel of plotting to assassinate Iranian negotiators during earlier spring peace talks.