Ceasefire Under Strain as Israel Strikes Tehran Targets
Israel has vowed to respond decisively to what it calls a violation of the recently announced ceasefire by Iran, after Tehran reportedly launched a new wave of missile attacks. This development comes just hours after both nations reacted to a US-brokered proposal for a phased 24-hour truce.
Trump Announces Phased Ceasefire; Israel Agrees
Earlier on Tuesday, the US President declared the start of a phased ceasefire beginning at 0400 GMT. Israel promptly agreed to this arrangement, signaling a tentative step toward halting hostilities. Meanwhile, Iran had yet to formally endorse the ceasefire at that moment.
Conflict Resumes Amid Contradictory Claims
Despite the tentative truce, Israel accused Iran of breaching the ceasefire by launching a fresh missile barrage. In response, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz authorized potent strikes targeting regime strongholds in Tehran.
However, Iranian authorities denied these missile launches, emphasizing their commitment to a cessation of hostilities against Israel. The Supreme National Security Council of Iran released a statement highlighting their "national decision to impose the cessation of war on the Zionist enemy and its vile supporters.”
Israel's 'Test Ceasefire' and Conditional Extension
Israeli media reported that Israel implemented a preliminary 'test ceasefire' lasting until 7 PM local time. During this window, Israel refrained from military operations to gauge Tehran's response. Should Iran uphold the truce until then, Israel indicated it would announce an extended ceasefire period.
Iran's Response and Military Readiness
Tehran framed its recent actions as a measured response to prior attacks on its territory, including strikes on a US base in Qatar. The Iranian armed forces asserted they delivered a "humiliating and exemplary" retaliation, reinforcing their readiness to respond decisively to further provocations.
The Supreme Council reaffirmed that Iran stands committed to immediate and proportional defense measures, maintaining vigilance without placing trust in verbal agreements alone.
Looking Ahead
As tensions persist, the fragile ceasefire hangs in the balance with both sides poised for swift action depending on the other's next move. The unfolding scenario underscores the complexities of conflict resolution where trust remains scarce and stakes remain high.
