Which action best reflects the Contracting Officer's obligation after an agency protest is received?

The action of suspending performance appropriately after an agency protest is received best reflects the Contracting Officer's obligation. When a protest is filed, it indicates that there are concerns regarding the contracting process which may include issues related to fairness, transparency, or compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

To address these concerns, the Contracting Officer must take steps to ensure that the protest is properly evaluated. Suspending performance allows time for the agency to assess the validity of the protest without further expenditure of resources on a contract that may be invalidated or altered as a result of the findings. This action serves to uphold the integrity of the procurement process and ensures that all parties' rights are respected during the protest review phase.

By suspending performance, the Contracting Officer demonstrates a commitment to due process and compliance with regulations governing protests. This can also prevent potential disruptions and financial implications before a resolution of the protest is reached, thus protecting the interests of both the agency and the protesting contractor.

Other options, such as dismissing the contractor's concerns or initiating litigation, do not appropriately address the obligations and responsibilities that come with handling a protest. Reviewing contract details, while important, does not sufficiently respond to the immediate need to halt performance until the protest has been resolved.