Trump Announces Ceasefire Between Iran and Israel
Former US President Donald Trump has declared it his "great honour" to have dismantled Iran's nuclear capabilities and helped bring a halt to the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. Posting on his social media platform, Trump emphasized that both nations equally desired peace after weeks of military escalation.
Escalation and Mediation
The conflict reignited earlier this month when Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, conducting airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites. In response, Iran initiated Operation True Promise 3, striking Israeli infrastructure with missiles and drones.
The United States subsequently entered the fray with precision strikes against three of Iran’s key nuclear facilities: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. This series of military actions led to heightened tensions reminiscent of a protracted regional standoff.
Ceasefire Agreement and Immediate Challenges
Trump announced a ceasefire deal following Iran’s attacks on US military bases in Qatar and Iran. However, despite the ceasefire declaration, clashes briefly resumed. The Israeli Air Force targeted an Iranian radar site north of Tehran, and Iran retaliated with ballistic missile launches toward Israel.
Trump publicly criticized both sides for "violating the ceasefire," suggesting the prolonged fighting has left them disoriented. He remarked, "They've been fighting so long and so hard that they don't know what they’re doing anymore."
Israel’s Response and US Support
After discussions between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel agreed to suspend further attacks on Iran. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed this move as a sign of respecting the ceasefire.
Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz expressed strong support for the US role in countering the Iranian nuclear threat. In a public statement, he highlighted ongoing collaboration with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to the ceasefire “as long as the other side does.” Katz also underscored plans to deepen security ties between the two countries moving forward.
Looking Ahead
Although the ceasefire offers a fragile respite, the underlying tensions between Iran and Israel remain acute. Observers note that success hinges on both parties adhering strictly to the agreement and engaging in constructive dialogue. The recent back-and-forth missile launches serve as a stark reminder of how quickly the situation can escalate once more.
Key takeaways:
- Trump asserts he eliminated Iran’s nuclear capabilities and brokered peace between Iran and Israel.
- Initial conflict began with Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites; Iran responded with missile and drone attacks.
- The US conducted targeted strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities as part of the conflict.
- A ceasefire was declared but briefly violated before Israel agreed to uphold it after consultations with the US.
- Israel’s Defense Minister endorses continued US-Israeli security collaboration amid the ceasefire.
