Washington/Tehran/Tel Aviv — Former U.S. President Donald Trump declared a “complete and total” ceasefire between Israel and Iran on Monday, raising hopes of an end to the intense 12-day conflict. However, within hours, the situation began to unravel.
🔹 Trump Announces Sudden Ceasefire
Trump congratulated both nations on what he described as the end of “The 12-Day War,” praising their “stamina, courage, and intelligence.” He added that the ceasefire, which both Iran and Israel agreed to, would begin early Tuesday and could be “unlimited.”
🔹 Israel Accuses Iran of Breaking the Agreement
On Tuesday morning, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz claimed Iran violated the ceasefire by launching missiles at Israel. According to an IDF official, two missiles were intercepted before reaching Israeli territory. Katz warned that Israel would “respond with force.”
🔹 Iran Denies Missile Launch
In response, Iranian state media and security officials denied any missile fire post-ceasefire. A senior official told CNN that no attacks had occurred since after midnight Eastern Time. The official also warned, “If Israel makes a mistake, all occupied territories will be attacked,” hinting at the volatility of the truce.
🔹 Global Reactions and Diplomatic Mediation
The ceasefire announcement was met with cautious optimism worldwide. Sources say Qatar played a key role in mediating the deal, while China expressed hope that the ceasefire would be honored. Yet, experts remain wary, noting the fragile nature of past ceasefires in the region.
🔹 Ceasefire Follows Iran’s Attack on U.S. Base
Just a day earlier, Iran had launched missiles in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes on three nuclear sites in Iran. Most were intercepted by Qatar before hitting the U.S.-run Al Udeid Air Base, with no reported casualties. Trump thanked Iran for the “early notice,” which analysts believe was a strategic move to avoid escalation.
🔹 Gaza Conflict Now in Focus
Following the Iran-Israel ceasefire, Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid called for a resolution to the ongoing Gaza conflict. With over 55,000 casualties and dozens of hostages still held by Hamas, Lapid urged Israel to pursue peace on all fronts.
NEWS SOURCE: CNN
